Are you looking for a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than crock pot stuffed shells! This hearty and flavorful meal is a delightful combination of pasta, ground meat, and cheese, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a homemade meal, crock pot stuffed shells are sure to impress.
Crock pot stuffed shells are a twist on the classic baked stuffed shells, but with the convenience of a slow cooker, they are even easier to prepare. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish that will have your family and friends reaching for seconds. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of crock pot stuffed shells, the ingredients you’ll need, and step-by-step instructions to create this delicious meal.
Origins of Crock Pot Stuffed Shells
Crock pot stuffed shells originated in the United States, where slow cookers have been a staple in many households for decades. The dish was created as a way to make homemade pasta dishes without the need for an oven or stovetop. By using a slow cooker, individuals could enjoy a warm, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Stuffed Shells
To make crock pot stuffed shells, you will need the following ingredients:
– Hamburger or ground turkey
– Ground beef
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Salt and pepper
– Italian seasoning
– Crock pot pasta sauce
– Ricotta cheese
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
– Frozen spinach, thawed
– Large pasta shells
– Olive oil
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions for Crock Pot Stuffed Shells
Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s dive into the steps to create your crock pot stuffed shells:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to the low setting.
2. In a large skillet, brown the hamburger and ground turkey together. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook until the meat is fully cooked and browned.
3. Add the crock pot pasta sauce to the skillet and stir well. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and spinach together.
5. Spoon a generous amount of the ricotta mixture into each pasta shell, and then place the stuffed shells into the slow cooker.
6. Pour the meat sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure each shell is fully coated.
7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
8. Before serving, sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese (optional) and let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
Enjoying Your Crock Pot Stuffed Shells
Once your crock pot stuffed shells are finished cooking, serve them warm with a side of garlic bread or a salad. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or even a cozy evening in. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
In conclusion, crock pot stuffed shells are a fantastic addition to any meal. With their ease of preparation and delicious taste, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead and try this comforting dish today and enjoy the warmth and flavor that crock pot stuffed shells have to offer!
