Introduction

Coquilles farcies au boeuf cheeseburger, or stuffed shells with cheeseburger filling, is a creative and delightful pasta dish that takes the classic flavors of a cheeseburger and transforms them into a comforting meal. This recipe combines tender pasta shells with a savory filling of ground beef, cheese, and seasonings, all baked to perfection. It’s a great way to enjoy a beloved favorite in a new and exciting form, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Jumbo pasta shells: 12
– Ground beef: 250g
– Onion: 1 medium, chopped
– Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
– Tomato sauce: 200g
– Cheddar cheese: 100g, shredded
– Cream cheese: 100g
– Mustard: 1 tablespoon
– Ketchup: 2 tablespoons
– Salt: to taste
– Pepper: to taste
– Olive oil: 1 tablespoon

Prep Time

The preparation time for coquilles farcies au boeuf cheeseburger typically takes about 20 minutes. This allows for chopping, mixing, and preparing the pasta shells for stuffing.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cooking the dish will take approximately 30 minutes. Therefore, the total time from preparation to serving is around 50 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it an excellent choice for a family meal or for entertaining guests.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the stuffed shells.

Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta shells and cook them for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside, making sure to cool them slightly to handle.

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Break it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning. Season with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices.

Add Vegetables and Sauce

Once the beef is browned, add diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are softened. Incorporate a splash of sauce and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until combined.

Mix in Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well mixed into the beef mixture.

Stuff the Pasta Shells

Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully stuff it with the beef and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced.

Add Topping and Bake

Pour additional sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle more cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious cheeseburger stuffed shells hot from the oven.

Notes

Customizable Filling

Feel free to add more ingredients to the stuffing, such as mushrooms, jalapeños, or different types of cheese for added flavor.

Make Ahead

You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Assemble them, cover, and refrigerate. Bake them when ready to eat, adding extra time if baking from cold.

Storage

Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for best results.

Cook techniques

Boiling Pasta

To achieve perfectly cooked pasta, boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Stuffing Techniques

When stuffing the shells, use a piping bag for precision. This makes it easier to fill the shells evenly without making a mess. Ensure that the filling is not too runny to avoid spilling.

Baking

To bake the stuffed shells, cover them with a sauce and cheese, then place them in a preheated oven. Baking will allow the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt beautifully.

Cheeseburger Flavoring

Incorporate classic cheeseburger flavors by mixing in spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce into the beef mixture. This will enhance the overall taste of the filling.

Cheese Melting

For the best cheese melt, use a combination of cheeses such as cheddar and mozzarella. This blend not only adds flavor but also gives a nice gooey texture to the dish.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the shells with other pasta types, but ensure they are suitable for stuffing.

Can I prepare the dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I serve with stuffed shells?

Stuffed shells pair well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, stuffed shells can be frozen before baking. Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer. Bake from frozen, adding additional time as needed.

Conclusion

The stuffed shells with beef cheeseburger offer a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. They are not only satisfying but also versatile, making them a great choice for family dinners or gatherings. With their rich flavors and hearty filling, these shells are bound to please everyone at the table.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Stuffed Shells

Try using a mix of spinach, ricotta, and marinara sauce for a healthier vegetarian option that still packs a punch in flavor.

Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Swap the beef for shredded chicken and fill the shells with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich, indulgent version.

Mexican-Style Stuffed Shells

Combine seasoned ground beef with salsa and cheese for a fun, Mexican-inspired twist on the classic recipe.

Pesto and Mozzarella Stuffed Shells

Use pesto in place of tomato sauce and add fresh mozzarella for a fresh and aromatic take on stuffed shells.

Seafood Stuffed Shells

Fill the shells with a mixture of shrimp and crab meat, blended with cream cheese and herbs for a luxurious seafood dish.