The Original Specials Recipe
#13 Shells with Meatball & Sausage
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Ingredients
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Pasta Shells
Meatball & Sausage Filling
Tomato Sauce
Toppings
Method
Pasta Shells
- 1
Cook the Pasta Shells
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the large pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Meatball & Sausage Filling
- 2
Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- 3
Form the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Tomato Sauce
- 4
Make the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Stir in canned crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, sugar, and basil leaves. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Combine and Serve
- 6
Combine Everything
Once the sauce is ready, carefully add the meatballs to the sauce. Let them simmer for an additional 10 minutes until cooked through.
- 7
Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the meatball and sausage mixture.
- 8
Serve
Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with remaining sauce, and sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.