Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells Recipe You’ll Crave

When you think of comfort food, there’s nothing more satisfying than a hearty, cheesy dish. Enter Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells, a perfect blend of two beloved classics: the cheeseburger and pasta. This indulgent recipe combines the savory flavors of ground beef, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and marinara sauce, all stuffed into large pasta shells. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also takes your taste buds on a journey of rich flavors and creamy textures.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, tips, and tricks for making Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish that will impress guests, this recipe is sure to deliver on all fronts.

Why You’ll Love Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells

1. Flavor Explosion

Bacon and beef are a match made in heaven. Add in the creamy blend of cheeses and marinara sauce, and you have a recipe that delivers a savory punch in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of burgers or pasta, this dish brings both worlds together in the most delicious way.

2. Comfort Food at Its Best

We all crave comfort food from time to time. Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells are a filling and satisfying dish that checks all the boxes for what makes comfort food irresistible—cheese, meat, and pasta.

3. Easy to Prepare

This dish may sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. The instructions are simple to follow, and the ingredients are accessible, meaning you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy families, meal prepping, or last-minute dinner plans.

4. Crowd-Pleaser

If you’re hosting a dinner party, this dish will undoubtedly become the star of the meal. It’s both visually appealing and flavorful, making it a great conversation starter among your guests.

Ingredients for Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells:

1. 12 Large Pasta Shells

Pasta shells are the perfect vessel for stuffing, holding the filling while retaining their shape after baking. The large size allows for a hearty portion of the beef and cheese mixture.

2. 1 lb Ground Beef

Ground beef is the heart of this dish, offering a rich, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients. Opt for lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.

3. 6 Slices Bacon (Cooked and Crumbled)

Bacon adds a crispy, smoky flavor that enhances the cheeseburger profile of the dish. Crumble the bacon before adding it to the mixture to ensure an even distribution of flavor in every shell.

4. 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese gives the dish a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the beef and bacon. It also melts beautifully, creating a gooey, satisfying filling.

5. 1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella cheese adds a creamy, stretchy element that complements the cheddar cheese and gives the truffle a smooth texture.

6. ½ Cup Cream Cheese (Softened)

Cream cheese provides a smooth, creamy consistency to the stuffing and balances the savory flavors with a touch of richness.

7. 1 tsp Garlic Powder

Garlic powder enhances the overall flavor of the dish with its savory, slightly sweet undertones. It’s a simple ingredient that adds a lot of depth to the recipe.

8. 1 tsp Onion Powder

Onion powder brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beef and bacon, adding complexity to the filling.

9. ½ tsp Salt

A pinch of salt helps to bring out all the flavors in the dish, making the other ingredients more pronounced and balanced.

10. ½ tsp Black Pepper

Black pepper adds a mild heat to the stuffing, balancing the richness of the cheese and meat.

11. 1 Cup Marinara Sauce

The marinara sauce serves as the base layer in the baking dish, infusing the shells with a tomato-rich flavor that cuts through the heaviness of the cheese and meat.

12. 2 tbsp Chopped Fresh Parsley

Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby flavor to the dish. It’s used as a garnish for the final touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish bakes evenly and that the cheese melts to perfection.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This typically takes around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Cook the Beef and Bacon

In a large skillet, cook 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once the beef is cooked, add the 6 crumbled slices of bacon, along with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes and then remove from the heat.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and cream cheese. Stir until the ingredients are well-mixed, and the cream cheese is fully incorporated into the cheese blend. Add the cooked beef and bacon mixture to the cheese mixture, stirring until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Pasta Shells

Take each cooked pasta shell and stuff it with the cheese and beef mixture. Be generous with the filling to ensure every shell is packed with flavor. Once filled, place the stuffed shells into a baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.

Step 6: Add the Marinara Sauce

Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are fully covered. The sauce will add moisture during the baking process and create a rich, flavorful base for the stuffed shells.

Step 7: Bake the Stuffed Shells

Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes. The foil will help steam the shells, keeping the filling moist and tender.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the foil and let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells!

Tips for Making Perfect Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells

Use High-Quality Bacon

Since bacon plays such an important role in this dish, using high-quality bacon will make a noticeable difference in the flavor. Opt for thick-cut bacon for a crispier texture and deeper flavor.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta Shells

When boiling the pasta shells, be sure not to overcook them. Al dente pasta works best for stuffing as it holds its shape better and doesn’t become too soft during baking.

Customize the Cheese Blend

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in this recipe. For example, you can try pepper jack cheese for a bit of spice, or Parmesan cheese for a more savory, nutty flavor.

Add Veggies for Extra Flavor

For a more balanced meal, consider adding finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or even spinach to the beef and bacon mixture. This adds color and additional nutrients to the dish.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Loaded Cheeseburger Stuffed Pasta Shells

• Honey Garlic Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Nuggets

• One-Pan Garlic Butter Chicken Over Parmesan Pasta

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells

1. Can I make Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish in advance by assembling the stuffed shells and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just make sure to cover the baking dish tightly with foil to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, as the dish will be cold when you place it in the oven.

2. Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner alternative, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. These options will still provide a great flavor base for the dish but may be slightly less rich than beef. Make sure to season the meat well to enhance the flavor and keep the dish delicious.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese in Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste. While cheddar and mozzarella are traditional choices for this recipe, you can also use pepper jack for a spicy twist or Parmesan for a nutty, savory depth. Blending various cheeses can offer a unique texture and flavor profile, so don’t hesitate to get creative!

4. How do I store leftovers of Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells?

Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to reheat them, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but baking ensures that the shells retain their texture. If you have a larger batch, it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months, though some slight texture changes may occur upon reheating.

Conclusion: Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells Are a Must-Try Dish

Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food, combining the savory flavors of bacon, beef, and cheese in a pasta shell, baked to perfection with a hearty marinara sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even a special occasion.

The flavors come together beautifully, with each bite delivering a creamy, cheesy, meaty delight. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a plate of irresistible Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells tonight!

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