Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines hearty ground beef, gooey cheese, and tender pasta in one comforting package, then Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef is your new best friend. This dish has all the comforting flavors we love—think savory beef, creamy ricotta, and a tangy marinara sauce, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a family-friendly dinner, this recipe delivers every time. Trust me, you’re going to love how the flavors meld together in every bite!

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Flavorful and Satisfying

Stuffed shells are a classic for a reason! With the rich, savory taste of ground beef mixed with creamy ricotta cheese, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish is packed with flavor in every bite.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This recipe is ideal for prepping in advance. You can assemble everything the night before and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining.

Kid-Friendly

Even the pickiest eaters will love this dish. The combination of pasta, cheese, and beef is always a win with kids. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies (if you choose to add them).

Budget-Friendly

Made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, this dish is cost-effective and filling without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells:

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: These big pasta shells are perfect for holding all the delicious stuffing.
• Ground Beef: The star of this dish, bringing hearty flavor and richness.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy, soft, and the base of the stuffing mixture.
• Mozzarella Cheese: For that irresistible, melty topping.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty finish to balance out the richness of the other ingredients.
• Egg: Helps bind the stuffing together.
• Garlic: Adds a fragrant, savory note to the filling.
• Onion: Sweet and aromatic, it deepens the flavor of the beef mixture.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, to bring all the flavors together.

For the Sauce:

• Marinara Sauce: You can use your favorite jarred sauce or make your own. Either way, it’s the perfect match for the stuffed shells.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): If you like a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes is a great addition.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~550 kcal
Protein: 28g
Fat: 26g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool slightly. Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will bake in the oven later.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling

In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the beef is cooked through, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley. Stir until well combined, making sure the filling is creamy and cohesive.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells

Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Be generous but don’t overstuff—just enough to fill the shell without making a mess!

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, open side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, ensuring each one is well covered. Sprinkle the top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that golden, bubbly finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired, and serve warm. These stuffed shells pair perfectly with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad.

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

With a Fresh Salad

A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to this rich dish. The freshness of the salad balances the heaviness of the pasta and cheese.

Garlic Bread

Of course, no pasta dish is complete without garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious marinara sauce.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted veggies, like zucchini, broccoli, or carrots, add some color and nutrition to the meal. Plus, they pair wonderfully with the savory stuffed shells.

A Side of Steamed Green Beans

Steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of toasted almonds will bring some extra crunch and freshness to your plate.

Additional Tips

• Make-Ahead: This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
• Add Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Add some finely chopped spinach or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze these stuffed shells before baking. Just wrap the assembled dish tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta shells to make this recipe gluten-free, and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken?

A1: Yes, you can absolutely substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. It will result in a lighter version of the dish, but still just as delicious!

Q2: Can I make the stuffed shells vegetarian?

A2: Of course! Instead of ground beef, you can use sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and onions, or even a mix of both. Just make sure the filling is hearty and flavorful!

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A3: Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells the night before and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

Q4: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

A4: While jumbo shells are traditional for this dish, you can substitute with manicotti or any other large pasta that can hold a generous filling.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?

A5: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Conclusion

These Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef are everything you want in a comforting pasta dish. Hearty, cheesy, and absolutely delicious, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for dinner tonight or preparing it ahead for a special occasion, this dish always delivers big flavor. So, grab your pasta shells, get cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, beef-filled bite!

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