Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are a hearty and comforting Italian American dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Tender jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory ground beef and cheese mixture, topped with marinara sauce, and baked until bubbly and golden. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various substitutions to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

For the Shells:

20–25 jumbo pasta shells
Salt (for boiling water)
Olive oil (optional, prevents sticking)

For the Filling:

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 egg
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

2½ cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, about 9–10 minutes.
Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Prepare the Filling:

In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, about 6–7 minutes.
Drain excess fat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Mix the Cheese Blend:

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Stir in the cooked beef mixture until well combined.

Stuff the Shells:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Carefully stuff each pasta shell with 1–2 tablespoons of the beef and cheese mixture.
Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish.

Top and Bake:

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
Serve hot with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 450
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 22g

Why Ground Beef is a Great Choice for Stuffed Shells

Ground beef is a great choice for stuffed pasta shells because of its rich flavor and ability to absorb seasonings well. It provides a hearty texture and works beautifully with the creamy filling and tangy marinara sauce. Ground beef also has the versatility to be seasoned to suit various cuisines, from Italian to Tex-Mex.

Another reason ground beef is a popular choice for stuffed shells is its affordability. Ground beef is often less expensive than other meats like chicken or steak, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious families or meal planners.

Additionally, ground beef is widely available, making it easy to find at your local grocery store. If you prefer a leaner option, you can easily swap in ground turkey, chicken, or pork without compromising the dish’s overall flavor or texture.

The Best Marinara Sauce for Stuffed Shells

The sauce you use for your Ground Beef Stuffed Shells can make or break the dish. While store-bought marinara sauce is convenient, homemade marinara sauce can elevate the flavor of the dish to new heights.

A good marinara sauce should have a balance of acidity from the tomatoes and sweetness from the seasoning. Fresh herbs, such as basil and oregano, should be used to give the sauce its distinct Italian flavor. Adding a touch of garlic or onions can deepen the sauce’s richness.

If you’re short on time, don’t hesitate to use a high-quality store-bought marinara sauce. Look for one with minimal additives and a high proportion of tomatoes to ensure the best flavor. Many grocery stores carry gourmet sauces that rival homemade versions, providing a quick and tasty option.

Cheese Variations for Stuffed Shells

The cheese filling is one of the highlights of Ground Beef Stuffed Shells. The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella gives the dish its signature creamy texture and savory flavor. However, you can always switch up the cheeses to suit your taste.

Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta is the traditional choice for stuffed shells, offering a creamy texture that blends beautifully with the beef and pasta. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use part-skim ricotta or even cottage cheese for a similar consistency.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella provides the gooey, melty topping that everyone loves. For a more pronounced flavor, you can use whole milk mozzarella, but part-skim mozzarella is a lighter option.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the richness of the other cheeses. For a more intense flavor, try using Pecorino Romano cheese.
Other Cheeses: If you want to experiment with different flavors, consider adding provolone, gouda, or even goat cheese to the filling. Each cheese will contribute its unique character to the dish, giving it a distinct twist.

How to Make Ground Beef Stuffed Shells Ahead of Time

One of the great things about Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is that it’s perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re preparing the dish for the week or want to freeze it for later, stuffed shells hold up well and can be stored in advance.

Make Ahead: Prepare the dish as directed, but stop before baking. Once the shells are stuffed and placed in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as instructed.
Freezing: Ground Beef Stuffed Shells also freeze beautifully. After assembling the dish, wrap the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, remove the foil and plastic wrap, cover the dish with fresh foil, and bake at 375°F for 45–60 minutes, until hot and bubbly.

Pairing Ideas for Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

While Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is a complete meal on its own, you may want to serve it with sides that complement its flavors. Consider pairing it with:

Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra marinara sauce.
Salads: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stuffed shells. A Caesar salad or arugula salad with lemon dressing would also pair beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms are a great way to add extra nutrients and flavor to your meal.
Wine Pairing: For a wine pairing, a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot works beautifully with the richness of the beef and cheese.

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells Variations

While the classic Ground Beef Stuffed Shells recipe is delicious, there are many ways to put a unique spin on the dish:

Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. For a heartier vegetarian option, you can add beans or tofu to the filling.
Spicy Version: For a little kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or season the beef with chili powder. You can also sprinkle jalapeños on top of the mozzarella before baking.
Cheesy Lasagna Style: Add layers of ricotta cheese and mozzarella between the stuffed shells, just like you would in a lasagna. This extra cheese makes the dish even more indulgent.
Chicken or Turkey: For a leaner option, swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey. These meats have a lighter flavor and texture but will still blend well with the cheeses and marinara sauce.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is a classic comfort food that brings together the best flavors of Italian-American cuisine. It’s hearty, flavorful, and versatile enough to be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a special occasion, Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

With its simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and endless variations, this dish is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. The ability to prepare it ahead of time, freeze it, or tweak it based on preferences makes it a go-to recipe for many households.

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