Description
This Beef-Stuffed Shells recipe features large pasta shells generously filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and creamy ricotta cheese. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, it’s a comforting Italian-inspired baked dish perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce (divided)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed shells.
- Cook Pasta Shells: Boil the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside carefully to cool.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned completely. Drain off any excess fat before proceeding.
- Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form the filling.
- Stuff Shells: Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture, ensuring each shell is generously filled but intact.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Assemble Shells: Place the stuffed shells in a single layer inside the baking dish. Cover the shells with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the marinara-covered shells for a cheesy finish.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow flavors to meld and heat through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top, then remove from the oven.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with sautéed vegetables or lentils for a similar texture and protein.
- This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking to save time on busy days.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added color and fresh flavor when serving.
