Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells

Name: Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large jumbo pasta shells; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Published: March 26, 2025

by Aria

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These hearty beef-stuffed pasta shells make meal prep a breeze while delivering an explosion of flavors
Customizable with various fillings, they look stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for gatherings

I remember the first time I served these at a family gathering; my cousin’s eyes lit up like Christmas morning when he took his first bite

Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta Shells: Use large jumbo shells that can hold plenty of filling; al dente is best for holding up during baking.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option; it keeps the dish from being overly greasy.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and balances out the meat’s flavor; opt for fresh ricotta if you can.
Shredded Mozzarella: For that gooey topping that melts beautifully; feel free to experiment with different cheeses
Marinara Sauce: Look for a good quality jarred sauce or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous
Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs that elevate the flavor profile; dried works well but fresh is even better.
Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor; freshly grated is always preferred.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Pasta Shells: Boil water in a large pot and add salt before cooking the jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix cooked ground beef with ricotta cheese, half of mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt until well combined.

Stuff the Shells: Carefully spoon the meat mixture into each cooked shell and place them in a baking dish lined with marinara sauce at the bottom.

Add Sauce and Toppings: Pour remaining marinara sauce over stuffed shells, then sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top for that cheesy goodness.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes before uncovering to bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Now you’re ready to serve these delightful hearty beef-stuffed pasta shells Enjoy every cheesy bite together with your loved ones.

You Must Know

These hearty beef-stuffed pasta shells are not just comfort food; they’re a love letter to your taste buds
The rich flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that delights everyone around the dinner table
Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta shells until al dente, then brown the beef while preparing your cheesy filling. This sequence saves time and ensures everything is ready together.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add spinach to the filling. Experimenting with different cheeses can elevate the flavor profile even more.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To make these beef-stuffed pasta shells extra special, consider adding some garlic and herbs to your meat mixture for depth of flavor
Remember not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente so it can hold the filling well
Always let your dish sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving

I remember making these hearty beef-stuffed pasta shells for my family’s Sunday dinner, and they vanished faster than I could say “seconds are encouraged.” The smiles on their faces made all that effort worthwhile.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other meats for stuffing?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work great as alternatives to beef.

How long do I cook the pasta shells?

Cook them for about 8-10 minutes until they’re al dente before stuffing.

What can I serve with these stuffed shells?

A simple salad or garlic bread complements the hearty flavors perfectly.

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📖 Recipe Card