Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

If you’ve been craving a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures, look no further than Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe. This dish combines tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a savory beef and cheese mixture, all baked in a luscious marinara sauce and topped with melty mozzarella. It’s the perfect go-to for a family dinner or a special occasion that feels effortless yet impressive. Once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite pasta dishes to prepare and enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to achieving that mouthwatering balance of flavors and textures found in this dish. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s creating the saucy base, enhancing the filling’s creaminess, or adding just the right hint of fresh herbs.

• 1 pound jumbo pasta shells: These large shells are perfect for stuffing and hold all the delicious filling inside.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps soften aromatics for a flavorful foundation.
• 1 large onion, finely chopped: Brings natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, fragrant kick to the beef mixture.
• 1.5 pounds ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this dish both filling and satisfying.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a classic Italian herb flavor that brightens the meat.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the oregano with an earthy, aromatic note.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every flavor in the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and balance.
• 1 (25 ounce) jar marinara sauce: The rich, tangy tomato sauce that ties everything together.
• 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese: Provides a creamy texture for the filling that melts beautifully.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping: Adds a nutty, savory edge.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Helps bind the cheese filling so it holds up well inside the shells.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brings a bright, fresh contrast to the rich ingredients.
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts into a golden, bubbly topping everyone will love.

How to Make Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Prepare the Pasta Shells

Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells in salted water just shy of fully tender. Reducing the cooking time by 2 minutes ensures the shells are firm enough to handle stuffing without falling apart. Then, plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking immediately and keep their perfect texture while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet and cook the chopped onion until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook briefly to release its fragrance. Then, toss in the ground beef, breaking it apart until browned and cooked through. Drain away any excess fat, then stir in dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper for a well-seasoned, flavorful filling.

Step 3: Simmer with Marinara Sauce and Cool

Pour half of the marinara sauce into your beef mixture and let it simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes. This step melds the beef and herbs with the tomato base, creating a savory filling bursting with rustic Italian flavors. Once done, remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before assembling the shells.

Step 4: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine creamy ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, the beaten egg, and fresh parsley. This cheesy blend adds luscious texture and richness that contrasts perfectly with the meaty filling. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells and Arrange in a Baking Dish

Gently open each cooked pasta shell and fill it generously with the beef and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells snugly in a lightly greased baking dish, creating a beautiful presentation even before baking.

Step 6: Layer with Sauce and Cheese, then Bake

Spoon the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan on top for a delightfully cheesy crust. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden, bubbly, and irresistibly inviting.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

After baking, let the shells rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow everything to set. This makes serving easier and ensures every bite is perfectly cheesy and cohesive. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and get ready to impress your guests or family with this homey, delicious meal.

How to Serve Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh green herbs like basil or parsley add a pop of color and a subtle fresh note that brightens the rich, cheesy flavors in the dish. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top right before serving brings an extra savory punch that’s hard to resist.

Side Dishes

Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad. Garlic bread or crusty bread is also ideal for soaking up every last bit of the luscious marinara sauce. For a vegetable side, roasted or steamed seasonal veggies add balance and nutrition to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this dish family-style in the baking dish right at the table, letting each person choose their stuffed shells. Another way is to plate individual portions with a drizzle of extra marinara sauce and a fresh herb sprig on top. For gatherings, preparing mini stuffed shells in smaller muffin tins makes for delightful, bite-sized appetizers or dinner bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe has cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, perfect for reheating on busy nights or packing for lunch.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake covered from frozen with an extra 10 to 15 minutes added to the baking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to retain moisture, until warmed through. For quicker reheating, microwave covered on medium power, stirring or rotating halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives that still work well with the cheese and sauces in this recipe. Just be sure to cook thoroughly and season well to keep the rich flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a mixture of hearty vegetables combined with cheeses for a tasty vegetarian twist that’s just as satisfying.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If ricotta is hard to find, cottage cheese blended until smooth can be used as a substitute. Another option is cream cheese mixed with a little milk or sour cream for a similar creamy texture.

How do I prevent the shells from falling apart?

Cooking the jumbo shells slightly under the package instructions and quickly cooling them in an ice bath helps maintain their shape, making stuffing easier and preventing breakage during baking.

Can I prepare Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator. When ready, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if starting from cold.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to fall in love with a new pasta classic, give this Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe a try. It’s a brilliant combination of comforting flavors, simple ingredients, and a satisfying finish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Trust me, once you make it, it will be on repeat for weeknight dinners and special moments alike.

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