Ground Beef And Cheese Stuffed Shells

Name: Ground Beef And Cheese Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for cooking

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Cravings

I absolutely love indulging in comfort food, and Ground Beef and Cheese Stuffed Shells have become a favorite in my kitchen. When I bite into these cheesy, savory shells filled with seasoned beef, it takes me back to family gatherings around the dinner table. The combination of tender pasta, rich sauce, and gooey cheese not only satisfies my hunger but also warms my heart. Trust me; once you make this dish, it will surely become a staple in your home too.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:29:35.015Z

During one of my kitchen experiments, I decided to combine my love for Italian cuisine with a bit of stuffed pasta magic. The result was these Ground Beef and Cheese Stuffed Shells, which turned out to be an instant hit with my family. I found that browning the beef with garlic and onions enhances the flavor immensely, making the dish irresistible. I also added a sprinkle of Italian herbs for that authentic touch.

One tip I found invaluable was to slightly undercook the pasta shells before stuffing them. This ensures they don’t burst while baking and allows them to soak up the delicious sauce. Every bite of these stuffed shells is a comforting explosion of flavors that I just can't get enough of!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty beef filling with a cheesy twist
Perfectly baked with a crispy top and gooey interior
Easy to make ahead and reheat, great for meal prep

Mastering the Techniques

One of the keys to perfecting Ground Beef and Cheese Stuffed Shells lies in getting the filling just right. Be sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop rich flavors; aim for a deep brown color on the meat, which indicates it's properly seared. When adding your seasonings, taste as you go to ensure a balanced flavor that complements the cheeses.

Pay attention while cooking the pasta shells; overcooking can lead to fragile shells that split during stuffing. Cook them only until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes, so they'll hold their shape when baked. After draining, rinsing them briefly with cold water helps stop the cooking process and makes them easier to handle.

Maximizing Flavor and Texture

To take the flavor up a notch, consider adding sautéed spinach or chopped herbs like parsley to your cheese mixture. This not only adds nutrition but also a burst of freshness that can elevate the dish. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes mixed into the beef filling will add a delightful kick.

For a visually appealing dish, sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top before baking. This will create a beautifully browned and crispy crust. Keep an eye on it during the last five minutes of baking; if the cheese begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Cheese Stuffed Shells

12 large pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cups marinara sauce
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

Gather all these ingredients, and let's get cooking!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat and remove from heat.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the egg. Mix until smooth, then fold in the beef mixture.

Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Place them in a baking dish filled with 1 cup of marinara sauce.

Bake

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some chopped fresh basil or parsley to the cheese mixture. You can also use a mix of ground meats for a richer filling.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once assembled, these stuffed shells can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you've already baked them, simply cover the baking dish with foil to keep them moist. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated throughout. If reheating from the freezer, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before warming them up.

For optimal freezing results, assemble the shells but do not bake them. Instead, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a simple side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A drizzle of balsamic glaze over roasted vegetables can also complement the richness of the dish beautifully. For a heartier meal, serve the shells alongside a classic Caesar salad.

Consider offering a variety of sauces on the side for dipping. A pesto sauce would bring a fresh twist, while a creamy Alfredo could add a richness that contrasts nicely against the marinara base. Feel free to get creative with your sides to suit all taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of vegetables for a vegetarian version.

→ Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Just assemble them, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What should I serve with stuffed shells?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with stuffed shells for a complete meal.