introduction

This dish cooks fast and feeds a group. It uses beef, cheese, and big pasta shells. Kids like it. Adults like it. If you like creamy pasta, try Creamy Beef and Shells for more ideas.

why make this recipe

You make this for a warm and simple meal. You can use one pan and a baking dish. You can make it ahead. It holds well and tastes rich. If you want other warm meals, see Beef Stew with Dumplings.

how to make Easy Beef Stuffed Shells – A Cheesy, Family-Friendly Classic

Cook the shells, make the beef mix, stuff shells, and bake. Work step by step. You can add a small onion when you brown the beef. Try a similar bake like Chicken Pot Pie Pasta if you want a change.

Ingredients :

20–25 jumbo pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
1½ cups shredded mozzarella, divided
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce
1 small onion, diced (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp chopped parsley or basil (optional)

Directions :

Boil pasta shells until al dente. Drain and rinse with cool water.
In a skillet, brown ground beef with garlic and Italian seasoning. Let cool.
In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, 1 cup mozzarella, parmesan, and herbs. Stir in beef.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread 1 cup marinara in a 9×13 dish.
Stuff each shell with beef mixture and place in the dish. Top with remaining sauce and cheese.
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 10 more until bubbly.
Rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

how to serve Easy Beef Stuffed Shells – A Cheesy, Family-Friendly Classic

Serve with a green salad or steamed veg. Add garlic bread on the side. You can also serve with a simple pasta side like Garlic Beef Bowtie Pasta for a bigger meal.

how to store Easy Beef Stuffed Shells – A Cheesy, Family-Friendly Classic

Cool to room temp. Cover and place in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer, wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in fridge and warm in oven at 350°F until hot.

tips to make Easy Beef Stuffed Shells – A Cheesy, Family-Friendly Classic

Do not overcook shells. Keep them firm so they hold the filling.
Let the beef cool a bit before you mix with cheese.
Use full-fat ricotta for more cream and taste.
Salt the pasta water, but taste the filling before you add more salt.
For a new flavor, try Garlic Butter Beef Cheeseburger Rollups ideas.

variation (if any)

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or sausage.
Add cooked spinach or chopped mushrooms to the filling.
Use all mozzarella for milder cheese or add fontina for a rich taste.
Make a white sauce base instead of marinara for a different bake.

FAQs

Q: Can I skip the egg in the filling?
A: Yes. The egg helps bind the mix. You can skip it, but the filling will be softer.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Stuff the shells and cover the dish. Keep in the fridge and bake when ready.

Q: How do I keep shells from falling apart?
A: Cook shells to al dente and rinse with cool water. Handle them gently when stuffing.

Q: Can I use frozen shells?
A: Most stores do not sell frozen jumbo shells. If you do use frozen, do not overcook them.

Q: Can I add more cheese on top?
A: Yes. Add extra mozzarella or parmesan before the last bake for more crust.

Conclusion

This recipe gives warm comfort and simple prep. For another full recipe that is close to this one, see Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef – Real Food Whole Life.

Easy Beef Stuffed Shells – A Cheesy, Family-Friendly Classic