Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

  • Author: Zoe McKenney
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these stuffed shells with ground beef—a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful dish perfect for dinner. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted mozzarella, all smothered in a rich marinara sauce. This dish is easy to make, freezer-friendly, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea or a delicious pasta bake, this recipe is a must-try!

Ingredients

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Stir until well blended. Then, add the cooled ground beef mixture and mix well.
  4. Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the beef and cheese mixture into each cooked pasta shell.
  5. Assemble the Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Let the dish cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

SAVE THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST

Find it online: https://cookcraze.com/best-stuffed-shells-with-ground-beef/