Stuffed Shells With Ground Beef: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Stuffed shells with ground beef is an amazing dish that promises to delight your taste buds with its rich flavors and comforting textures. This Italian classic combines large pasta shells filled with seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, and savory marinara sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. In every bite, the marriage of flavors and textures evokes warmth and happiness, making it a favorite among many.
If you’ve never tried stuffed shells with ground beef, you’re in for a treat. The moment you serve them, the aroma fills the room, instantly making everyone’s mouth water. The tender pasta shells wrap around a delicious filling that stays juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process. This recipe is easy enough for novice cooks, yet impressive enough to serve to guests or loved ones. Let’s explore why this recipe stands out and how you can create a plateful of goodness in your own kitchen.
In this article, you’ll learn about the incredible flavors of stuffed shells with ground beef, why this recipe is so beloved, the preparation and cooking times, the ingredient list you’ll need, step-by-step instructions to follow, and tips on how to serve this dish beautifully. Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that will leave your family and friends asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed shells with ground beef is not just another pasta dish; it’s a celebration on your plate. Here are some reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
1. Bursting with Flavor – The combination of beef, ricotta, and marinara sauce creates a perfect harmony of flavors.
2. Family-Friendly – Both kids and adults enjoy this hearty meal, making it perfect for the entire family.
3. Freezer Friendly – Make a large batch and freeze extras for easy weeknight dinners or last-minute meals.
4. Comforting and Satisfying – Packed with nutrients, this dish is hearty and fulfilling.
5. Easily Customizable – Feel free to adjust the ingredient amounts or add vegetables for extra nutrition.
6. Simple Preparation – The straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
With this irresistible combination of features, it’s easy to see why stuffed shells with ground beef is a beloved recipe in many households. Each mouthful will bring joy and comfort, enveloping you in flavors that feel like a warm embrace.

Preparation and Cooking Time

For stuffed shells with ground beef, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes total time, which encompasses both preparation and baking. Here’s the breakdown of the timing:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
– Cooling Time: 5-10 minutes
These times may vary depending on your kitchen efficiency, but this framework provides a solid estimation for your cooking adventure.

Ingredients

– 12-15 large pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 15 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 egg
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating stuffed shells with ground beef can be a fun and rewarding experience if you follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta shells until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff the Shells: Take each pasta shell and fill it generously with the beef and cheese mixture.
6. Prepare Baking Dish: Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Arrange the Shells: Place the stuffed shells on top of the sauce in the baking dish.
8. Top with Sauce: Spread the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well-coated.
9. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
10. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
12. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Following these steps will guide you in creating amazing stuffed shells with ground beef that your family and friends will adore.

How to Serve

To make your stuffed shells with ground beef truly shine, consider these serving suggestions:
1. Presentation Matters: Serve the stuffed shells directly from the baking dish or transfer them to an elegant serving platter for an inviting table setting.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal that complements the rich flavors.
3. Portion Size: Offer generous portions, but allow for seconds! This dish is hearty, so smaller sides can make for a more comfortable serving experience.
4. Sauce on the Side: Serve extra marinara sauce on the side for those who enjoy additional sauce with their pasta.
5. Beverage Pairing: A light red wine, like Chianti or a soda, can accentuate the flavors in this dish beautifully.
With these tips, you’ll ensure that your stuffed shells with ground beef are not only delicious but also elegantly served, making for a memorable dining occasion. Enjoy!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ricotta and high-quality ground beef make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
– Don’t Overstuff the Shells: Leave a little room when stuffing to prevent the shells from bursting during baking.
– Experiment with Cheese: Try adding different cheeses like goat cheese or fontina for a unique twist.
– Let it Rest: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and make it easier to serve.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to explore these variations of stuffed shells with ground beef:
1. Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a mix of your favorite vegetables.
2. Mexican Twist: Add taco seasoning to the beef filling and use salsa in place of marinara for a flavorful variation.
3. Cheese Lover’s Delight: Increase the cheese content by adding extra mozzarella or even a cheese blend to the filling.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– Freezing: Freeze individual portions of stuffed shells in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months. Ensure they are covered well to avoid freezer burn.

Special Equipment

For making stuffed shells with ground beef, you will need:
– Large Pot: For boiling the pasta shells.
– Colander: To drain the cooked pasta once done.
– Large Skillet: For browning the ground beef.
– Mixing Bowl: For preparing the filling mixture.
– 9×13 inch Baking Dish: For assembling and baking the stuffed shells.
– Aluminum Foil: To cover the dish during baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken can serve as excellent substitutes for ground beef.

How do I know when the stuffed shells are done baking?

They should be bubbly and golden brown on top. You can check by inserting a knife into the center; it should feel hot.

Can I prepare these shells in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the shells and assemble them a day in advance. Just cover them and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Choose gluten-free pasta shells and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to maintain moisture, or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells with ground beef is an incredible dish that brings joy and satisfaction to the dinner table. The blend of pasta, savory beef, and creamy cheese topped with marinara sauce makes for an unforgettable meal. Whether enjoying it with family or serving it to guests, this recipe is bound to impress. Try it out and relish the delightful flavors that come together in this comforting dish.