Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Uitgelicht onder: Recepten voor seizoensgebonden zomerse gerechten

I love making Ground Beef Stuffed Shells for family gatherings because they're always a hit! These shells are not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious, stuffed with a savory beef mixture and smothered in marinara sauce. Preparing this dish offers a wonderful opportunity to involve your loved ones in the kitchen, making it not just a meal but a collaborative experience. Each bite is a burst of flavor that brings everyone together, and it's comforting to know that a hearty meal is just around the corner.

Gemaakt door

Jessica Brown

Laatst bijgewerkt op 2026-02-27T13:46:50.698Z

When I first tried making Ground Beef Stuffed Shells, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying the dish turned out to be. The rich flavors of the seasoned beef combined with creamy ricotta and tangy marinara sauce create a comforting balance. I remember the first time I served it to my family; the joy on their faces was priceless. Paying close attention to seasoning the beef makes all the difference in elevating the overall dish.

One little tip I learned is to cook the shells just until al dente; this ensures they hold their shape when stuffed and baked. I also love adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top before baking for that melty, golden finish. It’s those small details that take the dish from good to great!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Deliciously rich beef and cheese filling
Perfectly coated with marinara sauce
A dish that brings everyone together

Ingrediënten

Gather these ingredients to create your flavorful stuffed shells.

Ingredients

12 large pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you've gathered your ingredients, you're ready to start stuffing those shells!

Bereidingswijze

Follow these steps carefully for perfectly stuffed shells.

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix well.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture and place them in a baking dish.

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the shells cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy with fresh parsley!

Serving Suggestions

When serving Ground Beef Stuffed Shells, a fresh garden salad is a perfect complement. The crispness of the salad paired with your favorite vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the dish, balancing the hearty flavors. You could also offer some garlic bread on the side to soak up any extra sauce, elevating the overall dining experience.

For a fun twist, consider topping the stuffed shells with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat, or drizzling with a little balsamic reduction for added acidity and depth of flavor. This can really elevate the dish and make it feel restaurant-worthy right at home!

Common Troubleshooting Tips

One common issue encountered when making stuffed shells is the filling leaking out during baking. To prevent this, ensure that you seal them well when stuffing and use just the right amount of filing—not too much that it oozes out. Additionally, ensuring your pasta is not overcooked initially can help; they should remain relatively firm to hold their shape.

If you find that the sauce is becoming too thick during baking, simply add a splash of water or broth to the baking dish before covering it. This will create steam, helping to cook the pasta without drying out the shells and ensuring a deliciously saucy finish.

Vragen Over Recepten

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative.

→ Can these be prepared in advance?

Yes! You can stuff the shells and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and other veggies, and use a plant-based cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the oven or microwave.