Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Introduction

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells combine the iconic flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with hearty pasta shells for a comforting and delicious meal. This recipe takes the savory combination of sautéed beef, onions, peppers, and gooey cheese and stuffs it into tender pasta shells, all baked in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

The first time I tried Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells, I was amazed at how the flavors blended beautifully together. It’s an easy way to bring the beloved cheesesteak flavor into a pasta dish that’s both satisfying and fun to eat. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests at a dinner party.

Whether you’re a fan of Philly cheesesteaks or simply love stuffed pasta, these shells are a delightful twist that you won’t want to miss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are some reasons to love Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells:

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Combining the beloved flavors of a classic Philly cheesesteak with pasta makes for a heartwarming dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.
• Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Flavor Explosion: Each bite is packed with the savory taste of seasoned beef, melty cheese, and the delightful crunch of sautéed peppers and onions, creating a symphony of flavors.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily modify the filling with your favorite cheeses, vegetables, or even substitute chicken or turkey for the beef, allowing for endless variations.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a hit for family dinners or gatherings where everyone can enjoy a taste of the classic Philly cheesesteak in a fun, pasta form.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate or freeze them, making weeknight dinners a breeze with minimal effort.
• Impressive Presentation: The stuffed shells look beautiful on the plate, making them a great option for dinner parties or special occasions when you want to impress your guests.
• Cheesy Goodness: With gooey melted cheese on top, this dish is a cheese lover’s dream, ensuring that every forkful is rich and satisfying.
• Satisfying Portion Sizes: Each stuffed shell is a hearty portion, ensuring that your appetite is thoroughly satisfied without feeling overly stuffed.
• Versatile Serving Options: These shells can be served as a main course, a side dish, or even as a party appetizer, offering versatility for various occasions and gatherings.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 550 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fat: 30g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Protein: 25g, Fiber: 3g

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create delicious Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells:

For the Stuffed Shells

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened

For the Marinara Sauce

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Beef: A classic choice that provides the necessary flavor and texture.
• Provolone Cheese: Adds a deliciously creamy and melty texture.
• Marinara Sauce: The perfect complement to the cheesesteak filling.
• Jumbo Pasta Shells: Ideal for stuffing, holding all the flavors together.
• Cream Cheese: Enhances the creaminess of the filling, making it rich and satisfying.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells:

Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Jumbo Shells: Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheesesteak Filling

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.
2. Season the Mixture: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
3. Combine Cheeses: In a mixing bowl, combine the beef mixture with provolone cheese and softened cream cheese. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread Marinara Sauce: Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
3. Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked jumbo shell with the cheesesteak filling, placing them in the baking dish.
4. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake and Serve

1. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
2. Serve: Let the shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve

Here are some serving suggestions for Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top the stuffed shells with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Pair with Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, buttery garlic bread for a delightful contrast and to soak up the cheesy sauce.
• Accompany with a Side Salad: A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stuffed shells and add a refreshing element.
• Drizzle with Hot Sauce: Offer hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their meal.
• Serve with Marinara Sauce: Provide a side of marinara sauce for dipping or drizzling, adding a tangy flavor to complement the cheesy filling.
• Top with Extra Cheese: Before baking, sprinkle additional cheese on top of the shells for an extra gooey finish.
• Offer Different Cheese Options: Provide a variety of cheese toppings (like provolone, mozzarella, or cheddar) to allow guests to customize their serving.
• Include Sautéed Peppers and Onions: Serve a side of sautéed bell peppers and onions for added texture and flavor, reminiscent of a classic Philly cheesesteak.
• Present on a Platter: Arrange the stuffed shells neatly on a large serving platter, drizzled with sauce and garnished, for an inviting presentation.
• Make It a Meal: For a complete meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a hearty soup, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of flavors and textures.

Additional Tips

Maximize your enjoyment of Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells with these helpful tips:

• Use Different Cheeses: While provolone and Cheez Whiz are traditional, try mixing in mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions into the cheese filling for extra flavor and texture.
• Use Leftover Steak: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover steak or roast beef, making it both economical and delicious.
• Parboil the Shells: Cook the pasta shells until they’re slightly underdone (al dente) before stuffing, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
• Top with Extra Sauce: Drizzle additional cheese sauce or a homemade marinara over the stuffed shells before baking for added moisture and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Use Garlic Butter: Brush the pasta shells with garlic butter before baking to enhance the flavor and create a golden crust.
• Freeze for Later: Assemble the stuffed shells and freeze them before baking. Just increase the baking time when you’re ready to cook from frozen.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Add Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of steak seasoning to the cheese filling for extra depth.
• Serve with a Side: Pair the stuffed shells with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that balances the richness of the cheese and meat.

Recipe Variations

Try these creative variations for your Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells:

• Mushroom and Spinach Variation: Add sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach to the cheese and beef filling for a deliciously earthy twist.
• Spicy Jalapeño Variation: Mix chopped jalapeños into the filling or top the shells with spicy pepper jack cheese for a kick of heat.
• Italian Sausage Variation: Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage for a different flavor profile and a hint of herbs.
• Chicken Cheesesteak Variation: Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef for a lighter version that still packs the classic flavors.
• Buffalo Chicken Variation: Incorporate shredded buffalo chicken in the filling and top with blue cheese for a spicy, tangy alternative.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Cream Cheese Filling: Blend cream cheese into the cheese filling for added creaminess and richness.
• BBQ Cheesesteak Variation: Mix BBQ sauce into the filling for a smoky flavor that pairs well with the cheese.
• Four-Cheese Variation: Use a blend of four cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, and gouda for an ultra-cheesy experience.
• Pesto-Infused Variation: Add pesto to the cheese mixture for a fresh, herby flavor that complements the traditional cheesesteak taste.

Freezing and Storage

Ensure proper storage to maintain the quality of your Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells:

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These stuffed shells can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Special Equipment

Here are some essential tools you’ll need to prepare Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells:

• Large Pot: For boiling the jumbo pasta shells, ensuring they are cooked to al dente.
• Colander: To drain the cooked pasta shells efficiently after boiling.
• Baking Dish: A large casserole dish or baking dish to hold and bake the stuffed shells.
• Skillet: For sautéing the steak, onions, and peppers, allowing for even cooking.
• Mixing Bowl: To combine the cheese mixture before filling the pasta shells.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and mixing ingredients during preparation.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure ingredients like cheese and spices.
• Oven Mitts: Essential for safely handling hot baking dishes when removing from the oven.
• Aluminum Foil: To cover the baking dish while baking to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
• Serving Spoon: For serving the stuffed shells once they’re baked and ready to enjoy.

FAQ Section

• Can I make these shells ahead of time?
  Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• What type of cheese works best?
  Provolone and mozzarella are traditional choices, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses.
• Can I use a different type of meat?
  Absolutely! Ground turkey or shredded chicken are great alternatives.
• How do I store leftovers?
  Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
  Yes, they freeze well. Assemble and freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
• How do I reheat frozen shells?
  Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• What can I serve with these shells?
  Garlic bread and a fresh salad pair wonderfully with the stuffed shells.
• Can I add more vegetables?
  Yes! Feel free to include mushrooms, spinach, or any favorite veggies.
• What sauce can I use instead of marinara?
  Alfredo sauce is a delicious alternative if you prefer a creamier dish.
• Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?
  Yes, you can use sautéed vegetables in place of the meat for a vegetarian version.

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Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells are a delightful way to combine the classic flavors of a cheesesteak with the comforting nature of pasta. These oversized shells are generously filled with a savory mixture of seasoned beef, peppers, onions, and gooey cheese, all smothered in a rich marinara sauce. Easy to make and even easier to love, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

Whether enjoyed as a family meal or a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, it’s a recipe that will leave everyone wanting more. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to impress, making it a memorable addition to your dinner rotation. Give it a try, and experience the deliciousness for yourself! I can’t wait to see how your Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells turn out—don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media! Happy cooking!