These stuffed shells are big pasta hugs filled with tasty ground beef and creamy cheese. They’re sure to please everyone at the table!
I always feel like a chef when I make this dish. It’s fun to stuff the shells, even if a few try to escape. Who can blame them when they smell so good? 😄
Plus, these shells are perfect for leftovers! Just pop them in the fridge and reheat for a quick meal later. So tasty, it’s hard to save some!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are essential for holding the filling. If you can’t find them, feel free to use any large pasta like cannelloni or even manicotti. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Ground Beef: Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter filling. You can also use plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Cheeses: Ricotta is a must for that creamy texture. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using a lactose-free ricotta or even silken tofu blended till smooth. For a richer flavor, mix in some feta cheese!
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have this, you can blend dried oregano, basil, and thyme. You might also want to throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Stuffed Shells?
Stuffing pasta shells can be tricky, but with a little practice, you’ll get the hang of it! Here’s how to make sure your shells are perfectly filled and stay intact.
- After cooking the shells, rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process, making them easier to handle.
- Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill each shell. If using a bag, simply cut the tip off the corner to pipe in the mixture.
- Don’t overfill; just a generous teaspoon per shell is enough. This makes it easier to bake evenly while preventing spills.
Taking your time and filling carefully will lead you to a hearty dish that everyone will love!
Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 40 minutes of baking time. So, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in about an hour. The time to cook the pasta and mix the fillings is quick, making this a great option for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it hot and ready for your delicious stuffed shells!
2. Cook the Pasta Shells:
Next, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente (firm to the bite). Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool a bit while you prepare the filling.
3. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook this mixture until the meat is nicely browned and the onions turn translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat after cooking.
4. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture with ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, the egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
5. Assemble the Shells:
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Now, fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture and arrange the filled shells in the baking dish.
6. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well covered. Then, sprinkle any additional mozzarella cheese on top to make it extra cheesy!
7. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure the foil doesn’t touch the cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. This will make sure the cheese is bubbling and golden on top!
8. Serve and Garnish:
Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes after taking them out of the oven. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as different meats have varying flavors. If using a leaner meat, you might want to add a bit of olive oil to keep the filling moist.
Can I Make the Stuffed Shells Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with chopped spinach, mushrooms, or a mix of your favorite vegetables. You can also add additional ricotta or other cheeses to make the filling extra creamy and flavorful!
How Should I Store Leftover Stuffed Shells?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If they’re getting a bit dry, add a splash of marinara sauce before reheating!
Can I Freeze Stuffed Shells?
Yes, stuffed shells freeze well! To freeze, assemble the shells in the baking dish but don’t bake them. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding a little extra time if they’re still cool from the fridge.
