Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A delicious and hearty dish, Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. These pasta shells are filled with a savory ground beef mixture, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with melted cheese.
Ground Beef Stuffed Shells have been a family favorite for generations. This comforting dish combines tender pasta shells with a flavorful beef filling, making it a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for family dinners
- Rich flavors from the seasoned ground beef and marinara sauce
- Easy to make ahead and freeze for later enjoyment
A Comforting Classic
Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. The combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and rich marinara sauce creates a delightful meal that is both hearty and satisfying. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a favorite among families and friends alike.
This dish not only pleases the palate but also fills the stomach, ensuring that everyone leaves the table happy and content. It's a great option for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, allowing you to create lasting memories over a delicious meal.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the best aspects of Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is their make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells in advance, then simply cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This makes it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or for entertaining guests without the last-minute rush.
Additionally, these stuffed shells freeze beautifully. You can prepare a double batch, freeze half, and have a delicious homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it. Just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, and you'll have a comforting meal in no time.
Customization Options
While this recipe calls for ground beef, feel free to customize it to suit your tastes. You can swap in ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version. The stuffing can also be adapted; adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
For cheese lovers, consider mixing in additional cheeses like feta or gouda for a unique twist. The beauty of stuffed shells is their versatility, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients while still enjoying the comforting base of pasta and sauce.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Shells
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
Cook the Pasta Shells
Boil the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Stuff the Shells
Fill each pasta shell with the beef mixture and place in a baking dish.
Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Stuffed Shells!
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or garlic bread.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells
To achieve perfectly cooked stuffed shells, it's crucial to not overcook the pasta during the boiling stage. Aim for al dente, as the shells will continue to cook while baking. This prevents them from becoming mushy and ensures they hold their shape.
When assembling the shells, don’t overfill them. A generous tablespoon of filling per shell is usually sufficient. This allows the sauce to permeate the pasta during baking, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Ground Beef Stuffed Shells pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread is a classic choice, perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce.
For a complete Italian-themed meal, consider serving a side of roasted vegetables or a warm antipasto platter. These additions enhance the dining experience and offer a variety of flavors and textures that elevate your stuffed shells to a feast.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover Ground Beef Stuffed Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or you can microwave individual portions for convenience.
If you've frozen a batch, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Reheat them covered with foil to ensure even heating, and remove the foil for the last few minutes to allow the cheese to get bubbly and golden.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them just before serving.
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
→ Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed shells. Just make sure they are well covered to prevent freezer burn.
Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
A delicious and hearty dish, Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. These pasta shells are filled with a savory ground beef mixture, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with melted cheese.
Created by: Thea Montgomery
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Shells
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
Boil the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped onion and minced garlic until softened. Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
In a bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Fill each pasta shell with the beef mixture and place in a baking dish.
Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Stuffed Shells!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 28g