Lunch & Dinner

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

March 5, 2025

Rubbermaid 28-Piece Clear Grey Food Storage Containers

As I stood in the kitchen, the aroma of bubbling marinara sauce enveloped me like a warm hug from my grandma, who always knew how to make even the toughest days melt away. Enter my secret weapon for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties: Ground Beef Stuffed Shells. These delightful pasta pockets are not just a meal; they are an experience that transports you straight to the heart of Italy—without the need for a passport.

Picture this: tender pasta shells cradling a rich filling of seasoned ground beef and creamy ricotta cheese, all topped with a cheesy blanket of melted mozzarella. It’s a dish that promises comfort and joy in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just trying to impress your significant other on date night, these stuffed shells will have everyone singing your culinary praises.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This comforting dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings
The flavor combination is out of this world—rich meat mingles with creamy cheese and zesty sauce
Visually appealing with their golden top and vibrant colors, they’re sure to impress on any table
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite fillings or sauces!

I remember the first time I served these stuffed shells at a family gathering. My cousin’s eyes lit up as he took that first bite—his grin said it all!

Essential Ingredients

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

Large Pasta Shells: Look for sturdy shells that can hold the filling without ripping.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option while keeping the flavor intact.
Ricotta Cheese: Fresh ricotta adds creaminess; you can substitute with cottage cheese if needed.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella creates that ooey-gooey texture we all adore.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade for an extra touch of love.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances flavor; fresh is best if you can find it!
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle brings depth to the filling without overpowering.
Dried Oregano: Adds an Italian flair to the dish; feel free to use fresh herbs if available!
Salt and Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers that shouldn’t be overlooked.
Olive Oil: A drizzle keeps things moist and delicious while baking!

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Pasta Shells: Start by boiling water in a large pot—add salt generously! Cook large pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Ground Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent. Then add ground beef along with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fragrant.

Mix Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Stir in cooked ground beef mixture until well combined for maximum deliciousness.

Stuff the Shells!: Carefully fill each cooked shell with generous spoonfuls of the beef-cheese mixture using a tablespoon or piping bag—just try not to eat too much filling along the way!

Add Marinara Sauce & Bake!: Spread some marinara sauce across the bottom of a baking dish before placing stuffed shells inside. Pour remaining sauce on top and sprinkle with leftover mozzarella cheese for bubbly goodness.

Bake Until Gold & Delicious!: Cover tightly with foil and bake in preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

And there you have it! Your very own plate of Ground Beef Stuffed Shells awaits—grab a fork but don’t forget to share!

You Must Know

Ground beef stuffed shells are a comforting dish that combines flavors and textures beautifully
You can easily prepare them ahead of time for busy weeknights, and they heat up wonderfully
The rich aroma will make your kitchen feel like a warm hug

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta al dente, then sauté the ground beef while mixing the filling. Assemble everything before baking to ensure even cooking and a deliciously melted cheese topping.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Toss in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor, or experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.

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, ensuring that cheese melts perfectly again.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use quality ingredients like fresh herbs and good-quality cheese to enhance flavors significantly
Avoid overcooking the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy when baked
Experiment with spices in your beef mixture to personalize the flavor profile

Sometimes, I serve these stuffed shells at family gatherings, and they disappear faster than my attempts at making homemade bread—let’s just say, bread-making is still on my bucket list!

FAQ

Can I use different types of meat for ground beef stuffed shells?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as lighter alternatives.

How do I keep my stuffed shells from breaking?

Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente; this prevents breakage during assembly.

Can I freeze ground beef stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking for up to three months for easy meals later.