Oh boy, are you in for a treat with these Oven Baked Shotgun Shells! Whenever I make this dish, it brings back some of the best memories from my family gatherings. Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the kitchen is filled with laughter and the tantalizing aroma of cheesy goodness, and everyone has their eyes on a baking dish overflowing with these savory pasta shells. I mean, who can resist pasta stuffed with all those glorious flavors, right?
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can switch up the meats, change the cheeses, or even determine your barbecue sauce preference. So, whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner, a game day snack, or just craving some good old comfort food, these Shotgun Shells will surely hit the spot!
What’s in Oven Baked Shotgun Shells?
Let’s break down the deliciousness, shall we?
Jumbo Pasta Shells: The stars of the show! They’re the perfect vessel to hold a hearty filling. Look for the largest ones you can find; they’ll stand up to all the stuffing you can muster.
Ground Beef or Sausage: You can’t go wrong with this savory base. I usually lean towards a mix of both for that classic taste, but whichever you prefer will work just fine.
Shredded Cheese (Cheddar or Mozzarella): Cheese makes everything better, doesn’t it? I love using sharp cheddar for that intense cheesy bite, but mozzarella adds that lovely melty stretch. Go ahead and mix them both for a cheese lovers’ dream!
Cream Cheese: This creamy ingredient makes the filling rich and indulgent. Make sure it’s softened; otherwise you might end up with lumps in your mix!
Italian Seasoning: The blend of dried herbs brings in a touch of the Mediterranean. It’s like Italy and my kitchen had a little party!
Diced Onion: For sweetness and texture. Cook them until they’re tender and translucent for the best flavor.
Garlic: Just two cloves but oh-so-flavorful! It infuses the meat with a heavenly aroma that you’ll be tempted to devour right off the spoon!
Barbecue Sauce: Adds a smoky, tangy glaze that pairs beautifully with the savory filling. If you have a favorite brand or homemade version, definitely use that!
Salt and Pepper: Basic essentials that enhance all the other flavors. Don’t shy away from seasoning generously!
Fresh Parsley: Optional, but who doesn’t love a pop of color and freshness to finish things off?
Is Oven Baked Shotgun Shells Good for You?
Well, let’s be real, this recipe leans more toward the indulgent side!
Ground Beef or Sausage: While these provide protein, lean cuts are always a healthier option. You could also consider using ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking to lighten things up.
Cream Cheese: It’s delicious but definitely on the richer side. You could substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
Shredded Cheese: Cheese is packed with calcium but also saturated fat. Moderation is key here, or you can opt for lower-fat cheese if you’d like to stay on the healthier side.
Overall, the oven-baked shotgun shells are a delightful treat when enjoyed in moderation. They make for a fun weeknight meal that feels special without being too fussy!
Ingredients List
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef or sausage (or a combination)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup Italian seasoning
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for topping)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
This recipe serves 4-6 people, so there’s plenty to go around—unless, of course, the fork fights break out!
How to Make Oven Baked Shotgun Shells?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain them and let them cool slightly — I know, it’s hard to wait!
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine your choice of ground beef (or sausage), diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. If there’s excess fat, drain it.
4. In a bowl, mix that cooked yumminess with cream cheese, shredded cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens, folks!
5. Now comes the fun part! Using a spoon, carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with that creamy meat and cheese mixture.
6. Arrange your stuffed shells in a baking dish like you’re showcasing them for a culinary magazine. Pour barbecue sauce over the shells, making sure to cover them evenly, as we want every bite to be flavorful.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
8. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they’re heated through and maybe just a little crispy on top.
9. Take them out of the oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve them garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
And voila! You’ve just created something incredible that will leave everyone begging for seconds.
Stuffed Shells & Tricks of the Trade
– Feel free to use leftover cooked meats or even add veggies like mushrooms or spinach to the filling for a little extra nutrition!
– Any extra barbecue sauce can be drizzled on top before serving for an added flavor kick.
– If you really want to impress, sprinkle some crispy bacon bits over the top for that ultimate “wow” factor!
So, what do you think? I truly hope you give these Oven Baked Shotgun Shells a try! They are sure to become a favorite at your dinner table, just like they have in mine. Don’t forget to share your experiences with me and how your own delicious variations turned out! Happy cooking!
