When you pull a steaming plate of Beef Stuffed Shells from the oven, the irresistible aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising the ultimate comfort in every bite. This dish takes about 1 hour to prepare and bake, combining juicy ground beef with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella, all enveloped in tender pasta shells. It’s an easy recipe that guarantees satisfaction for everyone at the table.
This recipe is perfect for families and anyone craving hearty, homemade meals. It’s an excellent choice for a cozy dinner or a potluck gathering with friends. You can make the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days, making dinner even easier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The cheesy filling makes for an incredibly satisfying bite.
- Jumbo shells hold generous portions, perfect for a filling meal.
- A homemade marinara sauce adds a personal touch and great flavor.
- It’s a one-dish meal that simplifies cleanup.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create Beef Stuffed Shells that excite the palate.
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
For the Marinara Sauce
- 24 ounces marinara sauce, divided
For the Filling
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Ricotta cheese: cottage cheese or cream cheese
- Ground beef: ground turkey or chicken
- Marinara sauce: homemade tomato sauce
- Fresh parsley: dried parsley or basil
How to Make It
Follow these steps to prepare your Beef Stuffed Shells.
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta
Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the filling
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until the beef is browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Mix the filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Assemble the dish
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Carefully stuff each cooked shell with the beef and ricotta mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
Top with sauce and cheese
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, then sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake covered
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Bake uncovered
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Let stand
Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 3-5 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it will cook further in the oven.
- Let the dish sit after baking to enhance flavors.
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best taste.
- Add extra cheese on top for a cheesier experience.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Great for family gatherings or meal prep.
