There’s something magical about stuffed shells with ground beef that makes every bite feel like a warm hug from your favorite aunt. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender pasta, perfectly cradling a rich, savory filling, topped with melted cheese bubbling in the oven. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds and drawing everyone to the kitchen like moths to a flame. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Now picture this: you’re hosting a dinner party, and as you pull these beauties from the oven, your friends’ eyes widen in awe. “Did you really make these?” they ask incredulously between mouthfuls. You nod proudly while secretly basking in the culinary glory of your stuffed shells with ground beef. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or just an ordinary Tuesday night, this dish promises to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This comforting dish combines ease of preparation with incredible flavor that pleases everyone at the table
- The vibrant colors and gooey cheese make it visually appealing and perfect for serving guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with various fillings or sauces based on your preferences
I remember the first time I made stuffed shells with ground beef; my brother couldn’t stop raving about them. He even called me a culinary genius—talk about pressure for the next dinner!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Jumbo Pasta Shells: Choose sturdy shells to hold all that meaty goodness without falling apart.
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Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best; it adds richness without being overly greasy.
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Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese provides the perfect base for stuffing; look for whole milk ricotta for extra creaminess.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use fresh mozzarella if possible; it melts beautifully and stretches like a dream.
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Marinara Sauce: Homemade is great, but store-bought can save time; just pick one with quality ingredients.
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Fresh Parsley or Basil: A sprinkle of chopped herbs adds freshness and brightens up the dish.
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Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Italian Herbs): Don’t skimp here! Seasonings elevate flavors and add depth.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Pasta Shells: Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt. Cook jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente but firm enough to hold their shape.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain excess fat for a leaner filling.
Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully stuff each shell with generous amounts of filling. Don’t be shy; they deserve all that cheesy goodness!
Add Sauce and Cheese Topping: Spread some marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish before placing stuffed shells on top. Cover them generously with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Now that you’ve mastered this delightful recipe for stuffed shells with ground beef, go ahead! Gather your loved ones around the table and celebrate not just food but shared moments filled with laughter and joy!
You Must Know
- Stuffed shells with ground beef are a crowd-pleaser, and the leftovers taste even better!
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor profiles
- The aroma wafting from your oven will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the ground beef thoroughly, then prepare the shells while the sauce simmers. This way, everything hits the table hot and ready to devour.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add spinach for extra nutrition. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a mixture of ricotta and mozzarella for a deliciously creamy filling
- Avoid overcooking the pasta shells to prevent them from breaking apart during stuffing
- Don’t skimp on sauce; it keeps the dish moist and flavorful
There was that one time I made stuffed shells with ground beef for a family gathering, and my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” I still hold onto that compliment like it’s a trophy.
FAQ
Can I make stuffed shells with ground beef ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What’s the best cheese for stuffed shells?
A blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy filling that’s simply irresistible.
How can I make stuffed shells vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with sautéed vegetables or mushrooms for a delicious veggie-packed option.
Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the heartwarming delight of stuffed shells filled with savory ground beef and creamy ricotta. This comforting dish combines tender pasta shells, a rich filling, and melted cheese, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its inviting aroma and visually appealing layers, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and bring everyone to the table for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil (chopped)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil water in a large pot with a pinch of salt and cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Stuff each shell generously with the filling using a spoon or piping bag.
- Spread some marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish and place stuffed shells on top. Cover with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
