Easy Savory Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting, flavorful meal that combines hearty ground beef with tender pasta, look no further than Savory Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef. This recipe brings together jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a deliciously seasoned mixture of ground beef, cheese, and herbs, all baked in a rich tomato sauce for a timeless, satisfying dinner that your family and friends will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort food classic: Combines familiar flavors into a warm, inviting dish perfect for cozy nights.
• Easy to prepare: Simple steps and accessible ingredients make it approachable even for novice cooks.
• Customizable: Adapt with your favorite cheeses, herbs, or veggies to suit any taste or dietary need.
• Feeds a crowd: Generous portions make it ideal for gatherings or meal prepping ahead.
• Balanced and hearty: A perfect combination of protein, carbs, and rich sauce for a filling meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses a handful of straightforward ingredients that work together to create the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Each component plays a vital role, from the creamy cheese to the savory ground beef and the al dente shells.

• Jumbo pasta shells: These large shells hold the delicious filling and soften to a perfect bite after baking.
• Ground beef: Lean ground beef adds hearty protein and savory depth to the stuffing.
• Ricotta cheese: Creamy ricotta creates a smooth, cheesy filling base.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that golden, bubbly finish.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to enhance the cheese mixture.
• Marinara or tomato sauce: Fresh or store-bought sauce keeps the shells moist and packed with flavor.
• Garlic and onion: Provide aromatic undertones that elevate the overall taste.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme giving a classic Italian flavor.
• Fresh parsley: Adds color and a fresh, herbal note for garnish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every element of the dish.

Variations for Savory Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

You can easily tailor this recipe to your preferences or dietary needs without sacrificing any of the flavor or heartiness. Whether you want to sneak in more veggies or switch up the protein, there’s plenty of room for creativity.

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter protein option that still delivers great taste.
• Vegetarian version: Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta instead of ground beef for a meatless twist.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling for some heat.
• Different cheeses: Try swapping mozzarella for provolone or using feta for a tangy flavor.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta shells to accommodate dietary restrictions.

How to Make Savory Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the pasta shells

Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them carefully and set aside to cool, ensuring they don’t stick together.

Step 2: Prepare the filling

In a large skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Then, mix in ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Stuff the shells

Using a spoon, fill each cooled shell generously with the ground beef and cheese mixture, making sure to fill the shells evenly without overstuffing.

Step 4: Assemble the baking dish

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer. Pour remaining sauce evenly over the shells, then sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake to perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to let the cheese brown slightly. Once baked, let it rest a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Savory Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

• Don’t overcook pasta shells: Boil them just until al dente to prevent mushy texture after baking.
• Drain the beef well: Removing excess grease keeps the filling rich without being oily.
• Use fresh herbs: Whenever possible, fresh parsley or basil enhances flavor much better than dried alone.
• Cover tightly with foil: This traps steam and keeps the shells moist during baking.
• Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit a few minutes after baking to firm up the filling and avoid spills when serving.

How to Serve Savory Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle some extra grated parmesan for a sharp finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus to balance the richness of the stuffed shells.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in small ramekins or bake in a large cast iron skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Leftovers reheat well and often taste even better the next day as flavors meld.

Freezing

You can freeze assembled but unbaked stuffed shells by wrapping the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze up to 3 months, then bake directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave individual portions for convenience.

FAQs

Can I use ground beef with higher fat content?

Yes, but be sure to drain excess grease after cooking to avoid a greasy filling and maintain the desired texture.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Ricotta can be replaced with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free cheeses and omit or replace ricotta with a plant-based creamy alternative to suit your needs.

Is it necessary to boil the pasta shells before stuffing?

Yes, boiling the shells softens them so they can be filled and baked without remaining hard or crunchy.

How spicy is this recipe?

The basic Savory Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef recipe is mild, but you can easily add spices like red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.

Final Thoughts

Ready to enjoy a crowd-pleasing, deliciously rich meal? Savory Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef hit all the right notes from cheesy goodness to hearty protein, making it a dish you’ll return to again and again. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon find it becoming a beloved staple in your kitchen!

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