Cheesy Philly Stuffed Shells: A Fusion of Savory Flavors

Introduction

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells combine the savory essence of a classic Philly cheesesteak with the comforting richness of baked pasta. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings together the best of two worlds. Whether you’re a fan of traditional cheesesteaks or simply love a hearty, cheesy pasta dish, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your home.

Key Takeaways

• Rich Flavor: Combines the bold flavors of seasoned beef and creamy provolone cheese.
• Easy Preparation: Simple, straightforward steps make this dish accessible for any cook.
• Versatile: Can be customized with various cheeses, vegetables, or even proteins.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Hearty enough for family dinners, but impressive enough for guests.

Photo bySam Miller

Ingredients

Stuffed Shells:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
• 1 tablespoon butter (15g)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 8 ounces ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ cup ricotta cheese (92g)
• ⅔ cup shredded Italian five-cheese blend (87g)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 12-16 jumbo pasta shells

Provolone Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
• 2 tablespoons butter (30g)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (16g)
• 2 cups warm milk (480ml)
• 8 ounces provolone cheese, thinly sliced or grated (224g)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Photo bySam Miller

Steps

1. Cook the Filling: In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter melts. Add minced garlic, diced green bell pepper, and diced yellow onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
2. Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, approximately 8-10 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the beef mixture to a large bowl to cool slightly.
3. Combine with Cheese: Once cooled, fold in ricotta cheese, shredded Italian five-cheese blend, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a zip-top bag and snip off one corner for easy filling.
4. Cook the Pasta: While the filling cools, cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Fill the Shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Pipe the prepared beef mixture into each pasta shell, filling them generously. Set the stuffed shells aside.
6. Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet used for the beef, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in warm milk, whisking until smooth and thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in provolone cheese, salt, and black pepper until melted and smooth.
7. Assemble and Bake: Place the stuffed shells into the cheese sauce, ensuring they are well-spaced and partially submerged. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pasta is fully cooked and the cheese sauce is bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional grated cheese if desired.

Side Dish Ideas

To complement the rich flavors of Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells, consider serving these sides:

• Simple Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness.
• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add a savory contrast and nutritional boost.

Photo bySam Miller

Nutritional Facts

• Calories: 867 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 62g
• Saturated Fat: 31g
• Cholesterol: 157mg
• Sodium: 2068mg
• Potassium: 673mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 10g
• Vitamin A: 1463 IU
• Vitamin C: 28mg
• Calcium: 837mg
• Iron: 3mg

Conclusion

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells are a delicious fusion of flavors that bring together the best of a Philly cheesesteak and the comfort of baked pasta. This dish is easy to prepare, versatile, and sure to satisfy any craving for hearty comfort food. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this recipe is a guaranteed hit that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness with your favorite side dishes, and relish in the ultimate comfort food experience.