Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

A Delicious and Comforting Classic

When it comes to hearty and satisfying meals, stuffed shells with ground beef are an all-time favorite. The combination of tender pasta shells, a savory meat filling, and rich tomato sauce creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

There’s something special about stuffed pasta dishes. They offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors—chewy pasta, creamy cheese, and a flavorful beef filling, all topped with a generous layer of sauce and melted cheese. Plus, they’re easy to prepare in advance, making them a fantastic choice for meal planning.

As the seasons change, we often crave comfort foods that bring warmth and joy to our tables. Stuffed shells fit the bill perfectly, whether you’re enjoying them on a chilly winter evening or serving them up for a summer gathering with a crisp side salad. The versatility and ease of this dish make it a must-have in any recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love It

• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, meaty goodness of these stuffed shells.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare everything in advance and simply bake when ready—great for busy schedules.
• Customizable: Swap ground beef for turkey, sausage, or even a vegetarian filling for a new twist.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze one for later; it reheats beautifully.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Whether for a cozy family dinner or a potluck, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredient List

For the Stuffed Shells:

• 20-25 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Side Dishes:

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed greens or romaine lettuce
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta or Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing

For the Garlic Bread:

• 1 baguette or Italian bread, sliced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta shells until al dente.
• Large skillet: To cook the ground beef mixture.
• Mixing bowls: For combining the ricotta, cheeses, and other filling ingredients.
• Baking dish (9×13-inch): To assemble and bake the stuffed shells.
• Slotted spoon: For draining the beef mixture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing ingredients.
• Piping bag or spoon: To fill the pasta shells easily.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the dish while baking to prevent drying out.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
3. Drain and rinse the pasta with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned.
4. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Drain excess grease from the meat mixture and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg.
2. Add the cooled ground beef mixture and mix until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
4. Arrange the filled shells in the baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
3. Let the stuffed shells rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

• Meat: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage.
• Cheese: Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a different texture.
• Sauce: Substitute alfredo sauce for a creamier dish instead of marinara.
• Pasta: Try manicotti or cannelloni if jumbo shells aren’t available.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or lentils instead of meat.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling.
• Extra Cheesy: Mix in more mozzarella or add a layer of cheese on top.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve with a crisp side salad for a refreshing balance.
2. Pair with garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the delicious sauce.
3. Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
4. Complement with a glass of red wine or sparkling lemonade.
5. Serve with a warm bowl of soup, such as tomato basil or minestrone.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish. When ready to eat, bake at 375°F for 45 minutes.
• Reheating: Microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.

FAQ

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze stuffed shells after baking? Absolutely! Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
4. Can I use store-bought pasta sauce? Yes, but homemade marinara enhances the flavor.
5. How do I prevent shells from sticking together? Toss them with a little olive oil after cooking.
6. Can I make this dish without eggs? Yes, just omit the egg or replace it with a flax egg.
7. What can I serve with stuffed shells? Garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables are great choices.
8. Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, use dairy-free cheese and omit ricotta or use a plant-based alternative.

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me (@tasiahub_) or use the hashtag (#tasiahub). I’d love to see your creations!