Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is a delicious and hearty dish that brings comfort to any table. It’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. This recipe combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef and creamy cheeses, all tucked into tender pasta shells. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra protein and can easily be tailored to your taste. You’ll enjoy the savory filling wrapped in a warm, cheesy blanket.

how to make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

Ingredients:

1/2 pound jumbo pasta shells
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound ground beef
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
1 cup spaghetti sauce (for filling)
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 large egg, beaten
1 cup spaghetti sauce (for the baking dish)
Extra mozzarella and parmesan cheese for topping

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 4-5 minutes until it softens.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned.
Stir in the Italian seasoning and 1 cup of spaghetti sauce, mixing well.
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and the beaten egg.
Mix the ricotta mixture with the beef mixture until well combined.
Grease a baking dish and spread 1 cup of spaghetti sauce on the bottom.
Fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture, and arrange them in the baking dish.
Top the stuffed shells with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. For the last 5-10 minutes, uncover the dish to allow the cheese to brown.
Once done, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish if desired, and serve.

how to serve Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

Serve these stuffed pasta shells warm, right from the oven. They pair wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for a bit of color and extra flavor. Enjoy them fresh, or with an extra dollop of spaghetti sauce on top.

how to store Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

If you have leftovers, let the stuffed shells cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-5 days. You can also freeze them. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven until warmed through.

tips to make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente so they hold their shape when stuffed.
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, to the beef mixture for extra nutrition.
If you want a spicy kick, include some red pepper flakes in the beef mixture.

variation

You can easily adapt this recipe by using different meats, like turkey or chicken, or by making it vegetarian with a mix of sautéed vegetables. You can also try different cheese blends for the filling or use a different sauce, like Alfredo, for a creamy twist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like manicotti or even small shells, but the cooking times may vary.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the pasta shells and the filling ahead but wait to assemble and bake until you’re ready to serve.

What sides go well with stuffed pasta shells?
Stuffed pasta shells pair well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.