Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells

Name: Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce (divided); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

By Elisa Levine

March 25, 2025

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There’s something undeniably magical about a plate of Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells that makes your taste buds dance and your heart do a little jig. Picture this: tender pasta shells cradling a savory filling of seasoned beef, herbs, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection until they bubble and brown. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like an inviting hug—who wouldn’t want to dive into this comforting dish?

I still remember the first time I made these delightful shells for my family; it was a chilly evening, and we were all gathered around the table. With each bite, there were gasps of delight and requests for seconds (and thirds). These hearty delights are perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends—trust me; they’ll be begging for your secret recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells are easy to prepare and will impress even the pickiest eaters
The rich flavors blend beautifully, creating an irresistible dish that looks as good as it tastes
Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights when you want something special without too much fuss

My cousin once declared these pasta shells “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is high praise coming from a carb lover like him

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Pasta Shells: Opt for large pasta shells that can hold ample filling; they should be sturdy enough to withstand baking.
Ground Beef: I usually use lean ground beef for less grease but feel free to experiment with other ground meats
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; sauté it until translucent for maximum flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key; it brings out the bold flavors in the meat mixture.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese creates a luscious filling; don’t skimp on it
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own; it’s the flavorful base of this dish.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: It melts beautifully on top and adds that golden finish we all crave.
Italian Seasoning: Use dried Italian herbs for convenience; they add an aromatic punch to the filling.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top before baking takes these shells over the top in flavor.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside on a greased baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and sauté diced onions until they turn translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 1 minute—then remove from heat.

Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine cooked ground beef with sautéed onions and garlic. Stir in ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well-mixed—this will be your flavorful filling.

Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or piping bag (if you’re feeling fancy), fill each cooked shell generously with the meat mixture. Place them side by side in a baking dish coated with marinara sauce at the bottom.

Add Sauce & Cheese: Pour remaining marinara sauce over stuffed shells so they don’t dry out while baking. Top generously with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake & Serve: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown—let cool slightly before serving.

Your culinary masterpiece is ready Enjoy every cheesy bite of these Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells with friends or family—they won’t last long

You Must Know

These Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells deliver a comforting meal that warms the soul
The blend of flavors and textures makes this dish irresistible, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings
Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente. While they cook, sauté the beef and onions. Once browned, mix in seasonings, then stuff the shells and bake with sauce.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add your favorite vegetables into the filling. A sprinkle of cheese on top before baking adds a delightful golden crust.

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 for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When preparing Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells, use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor
Avoid overcooking shells; they should be firm to hold fillings well
Always taste your meat mixture before stuffing to ensure it’s seasoned just right

Sharing my first attempt at these Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells was memorable; my friends devoured them and requested seconds within minutes

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the filling a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to stuff.

What other sauces work well with this dish?

Marinara, Alfredo, or even a homemade pesto can elevate these pasta shells beautifully.

How do I prevent pasta shells from sticking together?

Toss cooked shells in a bit of olive oil to keep them separated as they cool.

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