Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

The Ultimate Cheesy Stuffed Shells with Savory Ground Beef is a classic comfort dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. Imagine a casserole brimming with juicy ground beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, enveloped in tender jumbo pasta shells and topped with rich marinara sauce. This dish is not just about flavors; it’s a celebration of textures and a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings where everyone comes together to enjoy a hearty meal.

Discover the joy of cooking with this Ultimate Cheesy Stuffed Shells recipe! Packed with savory ground beef, rich ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, these jumbo pasta shells are a comforting classic perfect for any occasion. This dish combines vibrant flavors, creamy textures, and a delicious marinara sauce for a meal the whole family will love. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these stuffed shells are sure to impress. Dive into our guide for tips on ingredients, preparation, and baking to create your perfect cheesy delight!

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Ingredients

20 jumbo pasta shells

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

2 cups marinara sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook Shells: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the jumbo shells according to package directions until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 5-7 minutes). Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.

Mix Ricotta Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, cooked ground beef mixture, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Stuff the Shells: Spoon a generous amount of the ricotta-beef mixture into each cooked shell. Place stuffed shells upright in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

Add Sauce: Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish & Serve: Once baked, let the shells sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | Serves 4-6