Stuffed Shells with Beef

Name: Stuffed Shells with Beef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the comforting layers of flavor in these Stuffed Shells with Beef. This delightful dish features large pasta shells generously filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, rich ricotta, and melty mozzarella, all baked in a hearty marinara sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and become a favorite on your table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-18T06:55:20.437Z

Stuffed Shells with Beef have earned their place in the hearts and stomachs of many. The combination of savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella creates a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

A Hearty Family Favorite

Stuffed Shells with Beef is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and comfort. This dish makes a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings, bringing everyone together over a delightful dining experience. The combination of flavorful beef, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella enveloped in tender pasta shells creates a hearty dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Incorporating this recipe into your weekly meal rotation will definitely earn you some culinary praise. The beauty of stuffed shells lies not only in their taste but also in their versatility. You can customize the filling or the sauce based on your family's preferences, making it a dish that can evolve seasonally or according to your taste buds.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Stuffed Shells with Beef is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. You can prepare a big batch over the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week. Simply follow the recipe, cook the shells, and assemble them in your baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate. When it's time to eat, just pop them in the oven for a quick and delicious dinner.

Moreover, this recipe freezes beautifully. After baking, let the leftovers cool completely before storing them in airtight containers. When you’re ready for a comforting dinner, just reheat them directly from the freezer or after thawing overnight in the refrigerator. It’s a great way to have homemade meals on hand when time is short.

Flavor Enhancements and Serving Suggestions

While the classic combination of beef, ricotta, and marinara is undeniably delicious, don't hesitate to experiment a bit! You can add chopped spinach or other vegetables to the fillings for added nutrition and flavor. A touch of crushed red pepper can add a nice kick to your marinara sauce, tantalizing those who enjoy a bit of heat.

For serving, a crisp green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with stuffed shells. A simple side of steamed vegetables can also complement this dish beautifully. For a festive touch, sprinkle fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top before serving to enhance the presentation and flavor.

Ingredients

For the stuffed shells

12 large pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the marinara sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your taste and dietary preferences.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef, cook until browned, and drain excess fat. In a bowl, mix ground beef with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Shells

Fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture and place them in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Bake

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and cover with foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Insights

This Stuffed Shells with Beef recipe is packed with essential nutrients, making it a balanced meal choice. Ground beef provides a good source of protein and iron, important for muscle health and energy levels. Meanwhile, ricotta cheese adds calcium and protein, while the addition of marinara sauce offers a dose of vitamins from the tomatoes.

While this dish is hearty and satisfying, you can easily make it lighter by using lean ground beef or substituting ground turkey. Incorporating vegetables into the stuffing or serving alongside a fresh salad further boosts the nutritional value, ensuring you and your family enjoy a wholesome meal.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is essential if you want to enjoy your Stuffed Shells with Beef later. If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely at room temperature before covering it tightly with foil or transferring to an airtight container. You can refrigerate them for up to three days or freeze for up to three months for longer storage.

When reheating, ensure that the stuffed shells are heated through completely. If reheating from frozen, it's best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for even heating. You can warm them up in the oven or microwave, but be sure to add a splash of marinara sauce to keep them moist and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked stuffed shells. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.

→ What can I serve with stuffed shells?

Stuffed shells pair well with garlic bread and a fresh salad.