Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef

Name: Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 lb ground beef; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 egg; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Create a cozy Italian dining experience with these Stuffed Shells filled with savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and topped with marinara sauce. Perfect for family meals, this comforting dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor that everyone will love. Dive into layers of cheesy goodness and enjoy the warmth of this classic recipe any night of the week.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-11-27T05:25:42.198Z

This recipe is a family favorite that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the creaminess of ricotta, all wrapped up in tender pasta shells. Perfect for any occasion, these stuffed shells are also great for meal prep and leftovers!

A Taste of Italy at Home

Stuffed shells are a beloved staple in Italian cuisine, combining hearty flavors with comforting textures. By preparing this dish at home, you not only create a delicious meal for your family but also get to enjoy the satisfaction of cooking from scratch. The rich combination of ground beef, creamy ricotta cheese, and savory marinara sauce transports your taste buds straight to a cozy Italian kitchen.

The layers of cheesy goodness in stuffed shells make them an irresistible choice for any night of the week. Plus, this recipe is versatile; you can personalize the filling with your favorite herbs and spices, or even add vegetables for added nutrition. It’s a meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a special occasion, stuffed shells are the perfect dish. They’re not only easy to prepare, but they also present beautifully, making them suitable for both casual and formal settings. When served with a side salad and some crusty bread, they create a balanced meal that’s sure to impress.

Moreover, this dish can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy schedules. Simply prepare the shells in advance, and when it’s time to eat, pop them in the oven. The tempting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake will have everyone eagerly waiting to dig in!

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your stuffed shells come out perfectly, cooking the pasta shells until al dente is crucial. This prevents them from becoming overly soft during baking, ensuring they hold their shape and provide a delightful bite. Additionally, let the cooked meat cool slightly before mixing it with the cheese for a harmonious filling.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses; substituting some of the ricotta with goat cheese or adding in some freshly chopped herbs can elevate the flavor even further. Don’t shy away from the marinara sauce either; a homemade sauce can make a world of difference and add a personal touch to your dish.

Ingredients

Stuffed Shells

12 large pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to make a delicious filling!

Instructions

Cook the pasta shells

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

Prepare the filling

In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the shells

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

Add the sauce

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storing and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers (which may be unlikely given how delicious these shells are!), storing them properly is key. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When stored this way, your stuffed shells can last for up to three days in the refrigerator.

For reheating, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This way, you can enjoy the same cheesy, comforting flavors the next day without losing quality.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the flavors of stuffed shells, consider serving a fresh garden salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens will balance the richness of the dish and add a refreshing element to your meal. You might also serve garlic bread or Italian bread, perfect for soaking up any extra marinara.

For drinks, a light red wine like Chianti or even a bubbly Italian soda can enhance your dining experience. These pairings help bring out the best in the stuffed shells, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.