Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Shells

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a plate of stuffed pasta shells brimming with a rich, cheesy, beefy filling and smothered in marinara sauce. This Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Shells recipe is the epitome of comfort food—a perfect marriage of tender pasta, hearty beef, and melty cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or looking to impress at a potluck, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

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Beyond its irresistible taste, this recipe is a breeze to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that feels indulgent and gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen.

Let’s dive into the details of this cheesy, meaty delight!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set them aside to cool slightly.

2. Cook the Beef Filling

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
• Drain any excess fat from the pan, ensuring the mixture isn’t greasy.
• Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix well until the filling is smooth and evenly combined.

Tip: Adding the egg helps bind the filling together, ensuring it holds its shape inside the shells.

3. Assemble the Dish

• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add moisture.
• Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Nestle the stuffed shells into the baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.

4. Top with Sauce and Cheese

• Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re evenly covered.
• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously on top.

5. Bake to Perfection

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the shells moist during baking.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to plate.
• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Flavor and Texture

This dish delivers layers of comforting flavors:

• The filling is savory and creamy, with the beef providing a hearty base and the ricotta adding a velvety texture.
• The marinara sauce is tangy and bright, perfectly complementing the richness of the cheese.
• The golden, bubbly cheese topping adds a satisfying stretch and slight crispiness, elevating the dish from good to irresistible.

The contrast between the tender pasta shells and the robust filling makes each bite a delightful experience.

Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Shells

1. Ingredient Variations:
   • Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage or ground turkey for a different flavor profile.
   • Swap ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
2. Sauce Options:
   • Use a homemade marinara sauce for a fresher taste.
   • Prefer a creamy twist? Add a layer of Alfredo sauce alongside the marinara.
3. Make-Ahead Convenience:
   • Prepare the stuffed shells and assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
   • Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for the best results.
4. Cheese Lovers’ Delight:
   • For extra indulgence, mix shredded mozzarella into the filling or sprinkle additional Parmesan on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Shells pair beautifully with:

• Garlic Bread: The perfect tool for scooping up extra sauce.
• Green Salad: A refreshing, crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Red Wine: A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the dish’s flavors.

For a family-style presentation, serve the shells directly from the baking dish with a big serving spoon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about great taste; it’s also about simplicity and versatility. It’s:

• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness and mild flavors make it a hit with children.
• Customizable: Adjust the filling and sauce to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Freezer-Friendly: Double the batch and freeze half for a ready-to-bake meal on busy nights.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Shells combine the best of pasta, cheese, and hearty filling into one dish that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing. Its rich flavors and satisfying textures make it a go-to recipe for pasta enthusiasts and cheese lovers alike.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering, cooking for your family, or simply treating yourself, these stuffed shells are sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic of homemade pasta dishes unfold in your kitchen!

Ready to indulge in this cheesy delight? Try it tonight and bring the taste of Italy to your table!