recipe using ground sausage
The Best recipe using ground sausage
I love this recipe because it’s forgiving yet full of flavor—no fancy techniques required, just a few basic steps that make the meat taste rich and satisfying. It’s also a great way to use up whatever ground sausage you have on hand, whether it’s Italian, breakfast sausage, or even a leaner option like turkey. Plus, it’s packed with protein and iron, which makes it a solid choice for a meal that’s both hearty and easy to share. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this dish delivers without any fuss.
Classic Sausage Stuffed Shells
A comforting dish where tender pasta shells are filled with a savory mix of ground sausage, tomato sauce, and melted cheese, then baked to perfection. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb ground sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F. Boil pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside. -
2
In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until softened (about 5 mins). Stir in tomato sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 mins. -
3
Spread a thin layer of tomato mixture in a greased baking dish. Arrange shells seam-side down, filling each with about 1 tablespoon of the mixture. Top each with 1 tablespoon of mozzarella and Parmesan. -
4
Bake uncovered for 15 mins. Reduce heat to 350°F and bake 10–12 mins more, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Kitchen shears
- Baking dish
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the filling before baking.
- Broil for 2–3 mins at the end if you prefer a crispier top layer.
Watch Video Of How Classic Sausage Stuffed Shells Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Stuffed Shells
1. Can I substitute another type of sausage for ground sausage in this recipe?
Yes, you can use a ground pork sausage, Italian sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage blend if the texture and flavor work well with the dish. Keep in mind that some sausages have a stronger seasoning, so adjust salt or spices slightly to taste.
2. How do I know when the sausage is fully cooked?
Ground sausage is typically fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer. It should also appear slightly browned and no longer pink inside.
3. What if I don’t have a meat thermometer?
If you don’t have a thermometer, you can use the “poke test”: press a clean knife into the thickest part of the sausage. It’s done when it’s no longer pink and reaches about 70°F (21°C) to the touch.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sausage mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 1 hour before browning.
