Italian Stuffed Jumbo Shells

Instructions

• 1)
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Place water in a medium to large sized pot on your stove top at high heat to boil. Keep in mind the jumbo shells take up much more room in the water than other pasta.
  3. Place your hamburger and Italian sausage into a large skillet on medium heat, to brown. At this step and continuously while cooking, use a spatula to break down the chunks of meat into finer pieces. If using my Italian sausage recipe (recommended!), prepare and add to the skillet with the hamburger.
  4. When your pot of water is boiling, add jumbo shells and cook for 12 minutes.
  5. Stir your hamburger and Italian sausage mixture to evenly combine them.
  6. When thoroughly browned, carefully drain grease and remove from heat.
  7. Add your pasta sauce to the meat mixture and stir to combine. Remove from heat and do not cover, as this mixture cooling off will help you in the long run!
  8. After 12 minutes, carefully pour jumbo shells into a strainer in the sink. Using the spray attachment, or faucet, run cold water over shells, cooling them. They should be comfortable to touch by the time you’re done. Be careful stirring them in the strainer with your hand, as some may have pockets of very hot water inside!
  9. Lightly grease your 9×13 pan.
  10. With clean hands, grab a jumbo shell in your non dominant hand. Hold it open with your fingers. With your other hand, use a spoon to stuff the shell with the meat mixture. Be careful, this could still be pretty hot! I stuff them almost completely full, but it’s your preference.
  11. Repeat this process until you run out of meat. I usually have 4+ jumbo shells left, which works because that’s about how many rip while cooking and handling.
  12. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the dish.
  13. Bake for 15 minutes on 350. At this time, broil for 1-2 minutes, or until browned. Watch closely!
  14. Serve and enjoy!