Name: Classic Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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introduction

This dish fills large pasta shells with meat and cheese. It feels warm and home made. It can feed a small group or a family. For a creamy spin, see this creamy beef and shells for ideas.

why make this recipe

You can make this dish in one pan and bake it. Kids and grown ups like the soft shells and warm cheese. You can cook it ahead and heat it later. If you like simple beef meals, check a quick sandwich idea at this ground beef Philly recipe.

how to make Classic Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

You cook the shells, brown the beef, mix the cheeses, fill the shells, then bake. You can mix herbs and spices you like. Use a plain tomato sauce or a rich sauce. See a slow cook idea that uses beef in a simple way at this beef stew.

Ingredients :

12 large pasta shells, 1 pound ground beef, 15 ounces ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 2 cups marinara sauce, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, Salt and pepper to taste, Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a bowl, mix the cooked beef with ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

how to serve Classic Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Serve the shells hot from the oven. Add a green salad or steamed veg on the side. You can set bread on the plate to soak the sauce. For a mild side with dumplings, look at this dumpling and stew idea.

how to store Classic Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Let the dish cool to room heat. Cover it tight with a lid or foil. Put it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer save, freeze in a tight pan for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and warm in the oven.

tips to make Classic Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Pick large shells so you can fill them well. Do not overcook the shells or they will break. Use a spoon or a small scoop to fill each shell. Let the bake sit 5 minutes before you serve so the cheese sets. For more beef tips and ideas, see this beef stew page.

variation (if any)

Use ground turkey or pork instead of beef.
Add chopped spinach or cooked mushrooms to the cheese mix.
Swap marinara for a meat sauce for a deeper taste.
Use a mix of cheeses you like.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shells?
A: Yes. Cook them a bit less if the pack says so, then fill and bake.

Q: Can I make this ahead and freeze?
A: Yes. Bake or not bake first, then seal and freeze. Thaw in the fridge then bake until hot.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. You can also use a microwave for a single plate.

Q: Can I make this meat free?
A: Yes. Use cooked lentils or chopped mushrooms with the cheese for a meat free fill.

Conclusion

For another clear take on stuffed shells with beef, see Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef – Real Food Whole Life.

Classic Ground Beef Stuffed Shells