If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting Italian dish to serve for dinner, look no further than these Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef. This classic recipe combines tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all smothered in rich spaghetti sauce and baked to perfection. It’s a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters and make you feel like you’re enjoying a meal in a cozy Italian trattoria.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed pasta shells are the perfect dish for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of pasta and cheese. They’re a great option for a family dinner, a potluck, or even a special occasion. The best part is that while they look impressive and taste amazing, they’re surprisingly simple to make.
This recipe features jumbo pasta shells that are cooked al dente, then filled with a mixture of seasoned ground beef and three types of cheese. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan creates a rich, creamy filling that’s bursting with flavor. Topped with a generous amount of marinara sauce and more cheese, these stuffed shells are baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delicious stuffed pasta shells, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- ½ pound jumbo pasta shells: These large shells are perfect for stuffing and hold the filling beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a touch of richness.
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped: Adds a sweet, savory flavor to the beef mixture.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning the dish.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fragrant, aromatic base.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base of the filling.
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds classic Italian flavor.
- 2 cups spaghetti sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade for extra flavor.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: For a creamy, rich filling.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooeyness and helps bind the filling.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese: For a sharp, nutty flavor.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Helps bind the cheese filling and adds richness.
How to Make Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef
Follow these steps to create a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Shells
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook the shells until they are al dente, according to the package instructions. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside on a baking sheet to dry.
Step 2: Make the Beef Filling
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed. Stir in the Italian seasoning and 1 cup of spaghetti sauce. Mix well to combine, then remove the skillet from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, and the beaten egg. Mix until everything is well combined. Once the beef mixture has cooled slightly, add it to the cheese mixture and stir until thoroughly combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Pour the remaining 1 cup of spaghetti sauce into the pan and spread it evenly over the bottom.
Carefully fill each jumbo pasta shell with the cheesy beef mixture, using a spoon to help pack it in. Place the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish, open side up, arranging them in a single layer. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella and some extra parmesan over the top.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden, crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve with extra marinara sauce and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta shells.
- Large skillet: For cooking the ground beef mixture.
- Mixing bowl: To mix the cheese and beef filling.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: For baking the stuffed shells.
- Cooking spray: To grease the baking dish.
- Spatula or spoon: For stirring and filling the shells.
- Aluminum foil: To cover the dish while baking.
