stuffed shells with ground beef

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These Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef are a hearty Italian-inspired comfort food featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then baked in a rich marinara sauce until bubbly and golden. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests, this classic casserole is sure to become a favorite.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 6–8

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Beef Filling

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Cheese Filling

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

Sauce

  • 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
  • ½ cup water or beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh basil
  • Chopped parsley
  • Extra Parmesan cheese
  • Red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Colander
  • Spoon or piping bag

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the jumbo shells according to the package directions until al dente, usually 8–10 minutes.

Drain and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process.

Arrange the shells on a baking sheet or drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened.

Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.

Drain any excess grease.

Season with:

  • Italian seasoning
  • Oregano
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir in the tomato paste and parsley.

Cook for another 2 minutes.

Allow the beef mixture to cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine:

  • Ricotta cheese
  • 1½ cups mozzarella cheese
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Egg
  • Garlic powder
  • Basil
  • Onion powder

Fold the cooled beef mixture into the cheese mixture until well combined.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Mix the marinara sauce with the water or broth and Italian seasoning.

Spread about 1 cup of the sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cooked shell generously with the beef and cheese mixture.

Arrange the filled shells in the baking dish, open side up.

Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the shells.

Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.

Bake for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden and the sauce is bubbling.

Step 7: Serve

Let the stuffed shells rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

Serve hot with garlic bread and a crisp green salad.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells

  • Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent tearing.
  • Let the beef cool slightly before mixing with the cheese.
  • Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melt.
  • Don’t overfill the shells, as they can split.
  • Allow the casserole to rest before serving so it holds together better.

Flavor Variations

Spinach & Beef

Mix 2 cups chopped cooked spinach into the filling.

Three-Cheese Stuffed Shells

Add ½ cup shredded provolone or fontina for extra richness.

Spicy Version

Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.

Mushroom Beef

Sauté 1 cup chopped mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor.

Alfredo Stuffed Shells

Replace half of the marinara with Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.

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