Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

These Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners or feeding a crowd. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory blend of ground beef, cheeses, and Italian seasoning, then baked in a rich spaghetti sauce for a deliciously cheesy, flavorful meal. This easy-to-make recipe combines the heartiness of ground beef with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese for a satisfying dinner. Whether you’re craving a filling weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, these stuffed pasta shells are guaranteed to satisfy. The combination of beef, cheese, and spaghetti sauce makes every bite mouthwatering. Make ahead and freeze for a convenient and quick meal anytime.

Ingredients:

• ½ 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
• 2 cups spaghetti sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 large egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and rinse the shells under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Beef Filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onion is softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up into chunks. Cook until browned. Stir in the Italian seasoning and 1 cup of spaghetti sauce. Mix well and remove from heat.
4. Make the Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and beaten egg. Add this mixture to the beef mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Assemble the Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray. Spread the remaining 1 cup of spaghetti sauce evenly on the bottom of the pan. Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the cheesy beef mixture and arrange them in the pan.
6. Top and Bake: Sprinkle extra Parmesan and mozzarella cheese on top of the stuffed shells. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

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Tips

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente so they don’t become too soft during baking. This will help them hold their shape and prevent the filling from leaking out.
• Prevent Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill the pasta shells, as they can burst or spill out the filling while baking.
• Make Ahead: These stuffed pasta shells can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze them before baking for up to 3 months.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a combination of both for a delicious vegetarian filling.
• Different Cheeses: Feel free to swap out the cheeses based on what you have. Try using provolone, gouda, or ricotta mixed with cream cheese for a richer taste.
• Add Veggies: To boost the flavor and nutrition, try adding chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the beef mixture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
While jumbo pasta shells are ideal for stuffing, you can use manicotti tubes or even regular pasta if you don’t have shells on hand. The filling works well with most pasta shapes.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance. Just cover them with foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If you’re freezing them, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and bake from frozen with additional cooking time.

What can I serve with stuffed pasta shells?
A simple side salad or roasted vegetables are perfect accompaniments to this dish. You can also serve with garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.

Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread: Serve these stuffed shells alongside a warm loaf of garlic bread for a complete Italian meal.
• With a Salad: A fresh Caesar salad or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the pasta.
• For a Comforting Dinner: Top with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and serve with a glass of red wine for a cozy and satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef are a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. With a creamy, cheesy filling mixed with savory ground beef and Italian seasonings, this recipe brings together the best of comfort food in one delicious dish. The gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese melted on top create an irresistible golden crust, making every bite a comforting treat. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Whether you serve it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!