Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes
I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stuffed Shells for dinner! There's something so satisfying about filling those large pasta shells with a rich blend of ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheese. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent, and it's sure to please the whole family. Plus, the leftovers are fantastic for lunch the next day. It’s a great way to batch-cook a delicious meal that's easy to serve any night of the week!
When I first tried Ground Beef Stuffed Shells, I was amazed by how easy it was to put together a dish that felt so special. The key is in the stuffing. I enjoy blending in ricotta and mozzarella with the seasoned beef, which provides a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the hearty pasta. Each bite is a burst of comforting flavors!
I’ve experimented with different sauces, but I always return to a classic marinara, which elevates the dish further. A little sprinkle of oregano and fresh basil not only adds flavor but also brightens the presentation. This has become our go-to family meal!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners
- Creamy filling balances beautifully with tangy marinara sauce
- Easy to prepare in advance and make for meal prep
The Art of Stuffing Pasta Shells
Stuffing pasta shells can seem daunting, but with a little patience, you’ll get the hang of it. Start with a spoonful of filling, ensuring it's not overstuffed to avoid spillage during baking. If you're finding the mixture difficult to scoop, try using a piping bag for cleaner and more precise filling. This allows for an even distribution and makes the process much faster.
To enhance the flavors of your filling, consider adding spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even finely chopped bell peppers. These not only boost the nutritional value but also add interesting flavors and textures, giving your Ground Beef Stuffed Shells a delicious twist. Experimenting with different cheeses such as feta or goat cheese can also elevate the dish.
Perfecting the Sauce and Cheese Layers
Choosing the right marinara sauce can make a big difference in this dish. A homemade sauce simmered with garlic, onions, and herbs adds depth, while store-bought options provide convenience. If using jarred sauce, consider enhancing it with a splash of red wine or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity, creating a more robust flavor profile.
When layering the cheese on top, resist the urge to skimp. Ensuring a generous amount of mozzarella on top promotes that delightful melt and stretch characteristic of great stuffed pasta dishes. For added flavor, you can also mix herbs such as basil or thyme into the cheese for an aromatic touch that complements the marinara.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Ground Beef Stuffed Shells:
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're all set to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Ground Beef Stuffed Shells:
Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Stuff the Shells
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a spoon, fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Place them in a baking dish.
Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Bake
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrition.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator, covered, until ready to bake. Just adjust your baking time, adding a few extra minutes, as they’ll go into the oven cold.
If you need leftovers or plan to freeze the shells, assemble them in a freezer-safe dish with the sauce layered on top. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. They can be frozen for up to three months, and when ready to cook, bake them directly from the freezer, adding significant time to the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Ground Beef Stuffed Shells with a fresh salad is a great way to round out the meal. A side of arugula with a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish beautifully. You can also offer garlic bread for a comforting touch that is always a crowd-pleaser.
For a festive presentation, top the baked shells with freshly chopped basil or parsley and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Drizzling a bit of olive oil before serving enhances the flavor and gives it a polished look without much additional work.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prepare these stuffed shells in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.
→ Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just cover tightly and they will last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
→ What can I serve with stuffed shells?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with stuffed shells for a complete meal.
→ Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or a meat substitute like lentils or vegan ground beef.
Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stuffed Shells for dinner! There's something so satisfying about filling those large pasta shells with a rich blend of ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheese. It’s a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent, and it's sure to please the whole family. Plus, the leftovers are fantastic for lunch the next day. It’s a great way to batch-cook a delicious meal that's easy to serve any night of the week!
Created by: Lucy Bennett
Recipe Type: Classic Comfort Dishes
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a spoon, fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Place them in a baking dish.
Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrition.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 21g