Let’s be honest—some days you just need a dinner that feels like a hug. You know, the kind of meal that wraps you in cheesy, saucy, carby comfort and whispers, “Everything’s going to be okay.” That’s exactly what stuffed pasta shells with ground beef deliver. They’re indulgent enough to impress guests but easy enough to whip up on a Tuesday when life feels a little… meh.
And hey, if you’re a ground beef fan (and who isn’t?), you’ve got to try our Ground Beef Enchiladas for a zesty spin on dinner.
Why Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef Will Steal Your Heart
What makes this dish so special? Let’s count the ways. First off, it’s basically all the best parts of lasagna—cheese, meat, sauce—but packed into adorable little pasta shells. And who doesn’t love food that’s both delicious and cute?
It’s also the ultimate comfort food. The gooey melted cheese, the savory beef filling, the rich marinara sauce… it all comes together like a symphony of deliciousness.
But don’t think this dish is just a calorie bomb. If you’re looking for a lighter twist, check out our Ground Beef Healthy Recipe. Same love for ground beef, just with a healthier vibe.
What You’ll Need to Create This Cheesy Magic
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these heavenly stuffed shells:
Main Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells – These guys are the MVPs, holding all the cheesy goodness.
- Ground beef – Because every great comfort dish starts with perfectly seasoned meat.
- Ricotta cheese – Creamy, dreamy, and totally necessary.
- Mozzarella cheese – For that melty, golden finish.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty kick.
- Marinara sauce – Use your favorite jar or make it from scratch if you’re feeling ambitious.
Flavor Bombs
- Garlic and onion – Because no great dish starts with, “First, open a jar of garlic powder.”
- Italian seasoning – Basil, oregano, thyme—classic, dependable, and oh-so-delicious.
- Salt and pepper – Don’t skimp. Seasoning is love.
For a busy night shortcut, our Ground Beef Instant Pot Recipe will save you time and sanity.
How to Make Stuffed Pasta Shells (Without Losing Your Cool)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the jumbo shells in salted water until al dente (a.k.a. firm enough to hold the filling but not falling apart). Pro tip: don’t get distracted by TikTok—overcooked shells are no fun to work with. Drain and let them cool.
Step 2: Prep That Filling
Sauté some diced onion and garlic in a skillet until your kitchen smells like heaven. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper like the boss you are.
Once the beef is cooked and cooled slightly, mix it with ricotta, Parmesan, and half of the mozzarella. Warning: you might want to eat the filling with a spoon.
And if Tex-Mex is your jam, don’t miss our Ground Beef Quesadillas for an easy dinner packed with flavor.
Step 3: Stuff the Shells
Grab a spoon and fill each shell with a generous scoop of the beef mixture. It’s kind of like filling tacos, but with pasta—and yes, it’s as fun as it sounds.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish (because nobody likes dry pasta). Line up your stuffed shells like little soldiers, pour the rest of the marinara over them, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Try not to drool while you wait.
Pro Tips for Stuffed Shell Success
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente shells are sturdier and easier to stuff. Think of them as tiny edible bowls that need structure.
- Go Fresh with Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may be convenient, but fresh mozzarella and Parmesan are next-level.
- Customize It: Toss in some chopped spinach or mushrooms for a veggie boost, or swap beef for ground turkey if you’re feeling adventurous.
What to Serve With Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef
You could totally eat these on their own, but why not make it a feast? Here are some ideas:
- Garlic Bread: Because carbs on carbs is a lifestyle. Try our Homemade Garlic Bread Recipe for the ultimate sidekick.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, crunchy croutons—it’s the perfect palate cleanser.
- Roasted Veggies: Balance the richness with some simple roasted asparagus or zucchini.
For another hearty dinner idea, our Ground Beef Burritos are always a hit.
Storing Leftovers Like a Pro
Stuffed shells make for fantastic leftovers. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Freeze: Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to three months.
- Reheat: Add a splash of marinara to keep them saucy, then warm in the oven or microwave.
Need some inspiration for taco night? Check out our Ground Beef Taco Recipe for a fun, flavorful twist.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re as obsessed with ground beef as we are, here are a few more recipes to try:
- Ground Beef Enchiladas: A spicy, cheesy crowd-pleaser.
- Ground Beef Instant Pot Recipe: Dinner in a flash.
Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef lean
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Flavor Boosters:
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Drain the shells and set them aside to cool.
- Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Allow the beef mixture to cool slightly, then combine it with ricotta, Parmesan, and half of the mozzarella cheese in a mixing bowl.
- Step 3: Stuff the Shells
- Using a spoon, fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a layer of 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 cheese evenly over the shells.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil (optional) and serve hot.
Notes
- Pasta Cooking Tip: Cook the shells until al dente so they hold their shape when stuffed.
- Customizations: Add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrition.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and bake it when ready to serve.
- Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of marinara to maintain moisture.
So, there you have it—stuffed pasta shells with ground beef, a dish that’s equal parts comforting and impressive. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, you really can’t go wrong with cheesy, meaty, saucy pasta goodness.
Ready to try something new? Explore even more delicious ideas at Tasty Good Recipes and find your next favorite meal.
And hey, don’t forget to save some leftovers for tomorrow—you’ll thank yourself later.
