Million Dollar Stuffed Shells – Cheesy & Creamy Pasta Bake

1. Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
2. Add 1 tsp salt to enhance the pasta flavor.
3. Drop in 12-15 jumbo pasta shells and stir to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the pasta 2 minutes less than package instructions to keep them firm for baking.
5. Drain the shells and rinse with cold water to stop further cooking.
6. Set aside on a flat surface to prevent them from sticking together.

2. Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil.
2. Add ½ finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add 1 lb (450g) halal ground chicken or beef and break it apart using a spatula.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned, stirring occasionally.
6. Season with:
7. ½ tsp salt
8. ½ tsp black pepper
9. 1 tsp Italian seasoning
10. ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional for spice)
11. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
12. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before mixing with the cheese.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
2. 1 cup halal ricotta cheese
3. ½ cup shredded halal mozzarella cheese
4. ¼ cup grated halal Parmesan cheese
5. 1 egg (lightly beaten)
6. Stir until smooth and creamy.
7. Add the cooled meat mixture into the cheese mixture.
8. Mix well until fully combined.

4. Assemble the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a light coating of oil or non-stick spray.
3. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the dish.
4. Take each cooked pasta shell and gently fill it with 2-3 tbsp of the meat-cheese mixture.
5. Arrange the stuffed shells side by side in the baking dish.

5. Add Sauce and Cheese Toppings

1. Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
2. Spread the sauce evenly using a spoon.
3. Sprinkle ½ cup shredded halal mozzarella and ¼ cup grated halal Parmesan on top.
4. For extra flavor, add a pinch of dried basil or oregano on top.

6. Bake the Stuffed Shells

1. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil.
2. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

7. Let It Rest and Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil.
3. Serve warm with a side of garlic bread or salad.
4. Enjoy your Halal Million Dollar Stuffed Shells!