Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Enjoy these delicious Ground Beef Stuffed Shells, a perfect blend of savory beef and cheesy goodness all wrapped in pasta shells.
This recipe for Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is a classic Italian-American dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. The tender pasta shells filled with a savory beef mixture and topped with marinara sauce and cheese create a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Savory beef filling combined with creamy cheese
- Comfort food that is perfect for family dinners
- Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time
A Comforting Family Meal
Ground Beef Stuffed Shells make for a delightful family meal that brings everyone together. The combination of savory ground beef and creamy cheeses nestled in pasta shells creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting. This recipe not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart, making it perfect for family dinners during busy weekdays or special occasions.
Not only are these stuffed shells delicious, but they also provide a wonderful opportunity to involve the whole family in the cooking process. Kids can help fill the shells, while adults manage the cooking and baking. This collaborative effort not only makes the meal preparation more fun but also creates lasting memories in the kitchen.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the standout features of Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is their make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to bake. This makes them an excellent option for meal prep, ensuring that you always have a hearty, homemade meal at your fingertips.
If you decide to freeze them, simply assemble the dish without baking, cover it tightly, and store it. When you're ready to enjoy them, just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This flexibility allows you to enjoy a comforting meal even on your busiest days.
Perfect for Customization
Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are also incredibly versatile, making them an ideal canvas for customization. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken, or even a meatless option like lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. This allows you to cater to different dietary preferences and make the dish your own.
Moreover, you can experiment with different cheeses or add your favorite vegetables to the filling for added flavor and nutrition. Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can be fantastic additions, enhancing the texture and taste of the dish while sneaking in some extra veggies.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Shells
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all the ingredients before starting the cooking process for an easier experience.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta Shells
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Beef Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Mix the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
Stuff the Shells
Fill each cooked shell with a generous portion of the beef mixture, then add a layer of the cheese mixture on top.
Assemble and Bake
Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, cover with remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Ground Beef Stuffed Shells experience, consider serving them with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the stuffed shells. Additionally, garlic bread or crusty bread can be a wonderful complement, perfect for sopping up any extra marinara sauce.
For a more Italian-inspired meal, pair the stuffed shells with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot. These wines enhance the savory flavors of the beef and the acidity of the marinara, creating a delightful dining experience.
Storage Tips
Leftover Ground Beef Stuffed Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them for a quicker option. Just ensure they are heated thoroughly to enjoy their full flavor.
If you have a large batch, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal whenever you desire without the hassle of cooking from scratch each time. Just remember to label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
Nutritional Information
Ground Beef Stuffed Shells not only satisfy your taste buds but also provide essential nutrients. With protein from the ground beef and ricotta cheese, along with carbohydrates from the pasta, this dish offers a balanced meal. The added cheeses contribute calcium, while marinara sauce provides a dose of vitamins from the tomatoes.
When customizing the recipe, you can further enhance its nutritional profile. By adding vegetables, you increase the fiber content, making this dish not only delicious but also a smart choice for maintaining a healthy diet.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative.
→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead and bake them just before serving.
→ What can I serve with stuffed shells?
A simple side salad and garlic bread complement this dish beautifully.
→ Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked stuffed shells. Just ensure they are well-covered to prevent freezer burn.
Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
Enjoy these delicious Ground Beef Stuffed Shells, a perfect blend of savory beef and cheesy goodness all wrapped in pasta shells.
Created by: Paige Sullivan
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Shells
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
Fill each cooked shell with a generous portion of the beef mixture, then add a layer of the cheese mixture on top.
Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, cover with remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 28g