Stuffed conchiglioni with meat

Stuffed Conchiglioni with Meat – A Delicacy That Will Win You Over

If you are looking for a recipe that brings a touch of originality to your plate, then stuffed conchiglioni with meat are the perfect choice. These large shell-shaped pasta are ideal for stuffing, and the combination of meat and cheese transforms them into a delicious and hearty dish. Let’s explore each step of this recipe together, so you can enjoy a perfect result!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

A Brief History of Conchiglioni
Conchiglioni are pasta of Italian origin, which, due to their characteristic shape, were originally created to be stuffed with various ingredients. Over time, they have adapted to different culinary cultures, becoming a versatile ingredient in many dishes. The fillings can vary from meat, vegetables, cheeses, or creative combinations, making each meal a story in itself.

Ingredients
*For the pasta:*
- 300 g giant conchiglioni

*For the meat sauce:*
- 500 g ground pork (or any other type of meat you prefer)
- 2 large dried onions
- 1 medium carrot
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any other vegetable oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Fresh basil, finely chopped

*For the topping:*
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 150 g grated cheese
- 200 g mozzarella, diced
- Pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Step by Step

1. Boiling the pasta
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. When the water is boiling, add the conchiglioni and boil for 10 minutes. It is important to boil them al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. After boiling, drain them and add a little oil to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the meat sauce
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and grated carrot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and paprika, then the ground meat. Brown the meat until it changes color.

3. Simmering the sauce
After the meat is browned, add enough water to cover the meat. Let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. Then, add the crushed garlic and tomato juice. Continue to simmer for another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, add the chopped fresh basil for extra flavor.

4. Stuffing the pasta
Use a spoon or a pastry bag to fill the conchiglioni with the meat sauce. Arrange them nicely in a baking dish.

5. Preparing the topping
In a bowl, mix the sour cream with the grated cheese and mozzarella. Add pepper and a dash of nutmeg if desired. Pour this mixture over the stuffed pasta.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 150 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top becomes golden and bubbly.

7. Serving
Serve these stuffed conchiglioni hot, perhaps with a fresh salad on the side or a slice of crusty bread.

Practical Tips
- Choosing the meat: You can use ground beef or chicken, depending on your preferences. A combination of pork and beef is also delicious.
- Variations: For a vegetarian option, fill the conchiglioni with a mixture of cooked vegetables and ricotta cheese or a mix of mushrooms and spinach.
- Storage: These pasta can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.

Nutritional Benefits
- Ground meat provides essential protein, while cheeses supply calcium.
- Carrots add vitamins and fiber, and basil offers antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions
- *Can I use whole grain pasta?* Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is a healthier option and adds an interesting texture.
- *What can I do with leftover pasta?* You can combine the leftover pasta with vegetables, cheese, and béchamel sauce for another delicious dish.

Serving Suggestion
For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of parmesan on top before serving.

These stuffed conchiglioni with meat are a real delight, perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends. By cooking this recipe, you will not only create a delicious dish but also bring joy around the table. Enjoy your meal!