Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells

Name: Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on March 24, 2025

There’s something magical about the aroma of bubbling cheese and savory ground beef wafting through the kitchen. Picture this: you walk in after a long day, and your senses are greeted by the delightful scent of Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells baking in the oven. It’s like a warm hug from your grandma, minus the awkward questions about your love life.

These stuffed shells are not just a meal; they are an experience. I remember the first time I made them; it was during a family gathering. My uncle was convinced he could eat his weight in them. Spoiler alert: he almost did, but we had leftovers for days. Serve these beauties at your next gathering or cozy night in, and get ready for some serious tastebud fireworks.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells are incredibly easy to prepare even on a busy weeknight
The rich flavors create a comforting dish that everyone will adore
Their vibrant appearance makes them perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties
Plus, they’re versatile enough to fill with any ingredients you have on hand!

I still chuckle remembering my family’s reactions when I first served these shells; everyone dove in like it was an Olympic event

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Large Pasta Shells: Opt for jumbo shells to hold all that meaty goodness inside without bursting.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a balanced flavor without too much grease.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth—don’t skimp on this vital ingredient
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the dish’s flavor profile; trust me—you’ll want the real deal here.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy delight brings richness to each bite—feel free to use part-skim if you prefer.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Because no stuffed shell is complete without a gooey cheese topping
Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan for added flavor and that irresistible golden crust.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that enhances all the flavors—don’t forget this little powerhouse
Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential seasonings that tie everything together beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: First things first—preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for achieving that golden-brown top we all crave.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion until translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook until aromatic; it should smell heavenly

Add the Ground Beef: Toss in the ground beef into the skillet. Cook until browned and crumbly, draining excess fat if necessary. Season with salt and pepper as it cooks.

Mix Up the Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, half of the mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper with your cooked beef mixture until well blended.

Stuff Those Shells: Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with generous portions of your savory filling mixture. Don’t be shy—stuff them well

Bake to Perfection: Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish before placing your stuffed shells inside. Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Each step takes you one notch closer to cheesy bliss! The anticipation builds as you watch those cheesy tops melt into perfection.

Now that you’re armed with this fun (and slightly messy) recipe for Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells, go forth! Bring joy (and maybe some competitive eating) to your dinner table where every bite promises warmth and satisfaction. Enjoy!

You Must Know

Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells are not just filling; they pack a flavor punch
The combination of spices and cheese creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before serving

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while boiling pasta shells. Cook the beef mixture next, then stuff the shells and bake them for ultimate cheesy goodness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add spinach for extra nutrition. Experiment with various cheeses to find your perfect combo

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Using fresh herbs can elevate flavor profiles significantly; don’t hesitate to sprinkle some on top before serving
Ensure pasta shells are al dente to hold up during stuffing and baking
Avoid overfilling shells; less is more for even cooking!

There’s something magical about cooking these Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells. I remember the first time I made them—my sister declared it a “life-changing experience.” After that, I felt like a culinary wizard.

FAQ

Can I use different meats for the beef-stuffed pasta shells?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work great as leaner alternatives.

How long should I bake the stuffed pasta shells?

Bake them for about 25-30 minutes at 350°F until bubbly and golden.

What can I serve with hearty beef-stuffed pasta shells?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly, balancing flavors beautifully.