Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the deliciousness of ground beef stuffed shells, a perfect harmony of flavors wrapped in tender pasta. This comforting dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-12-25T15:49:10.448Z

This dish combines the heartiness of ground beef with the tenderness of pasta shells, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. It's a family favorite and perfect for gatherings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Cheesy and flavorful filling that delights the palate.
Easy to prepare, making it great for weeknight meals.

      

A Comforting Classic

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are the epitome of comfort food, combining hearty ingredients and rich flavors in a single dish. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes that everyone will enjoy. The tender pasta shells cradle a savory beef and cheese filling, enveloping your taste buds in warmth and satisfaction.

Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish is easy to scale up or down. It’s versatile enough to make ahead of time, allowing you to prepare a delicious meal without the stress of last-minute cooking. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) make for an excellent lunch the next day!

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is their suitability for meal prep. You can prepare the filling and stuff the shells in advance, then simply bake them when you're ready to eat. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeks when you need a quick and satisfying meal without the fuss.

Additionally, you can customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients. Consider adding sautéed vegetables to the filling for added nutrition, or experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste. This flexibility allows you to create a dish that not only meets your cravings but also aligns with your dietary preferences.

A Family Favorite

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are not just a meal; they are a way to bring family together. As you gather around the table to enjoy this flavorful dish, you're not just sharing food; you're creating memories. The joy of serving a homemade meal that everyone loves is unmatched, and this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

Children and adults alike are drawn to the cheesy goodness and savory filling. It’s a great way to introduce kids to cooking as they can help with stuffing the shells and sprinkling cheese on top. Engaging in the cooking process together makes mealtime even more special.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells

12 jumbo pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Marinara Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Shells

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture and place in the dish. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious ground beef stuffed shells!

Make sure to let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving for best results.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells

To ensure your stuffed shells are perfectly filled, use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off. This method allows for easy and even filling without making a mess. Additionally, you can slightly undercook the pasta shells during boiling; this will help them hold their shape better during baking.

Don’t skip the resting period after baking! Allowing the stuffed shells to cool for a few minutes before serving helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to serve. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed shells are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the meal with various sides. Fresh garlic bread complements the dish beautifully, soaking up the marinara sauce and adding a crunchy texture. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed shells.

For an Italian twist, consider serving the dish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor profile, bringing a hint of brightness to each bite.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. To freeze, place the stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen shells, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning, and remove the foil in the last few minutes for a bubbly, golden top.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the stuffed shells in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.

→ Can I freeze the stuffed shells?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked stuffed shells for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.