Beef Stuffed Shells

Beef Stuffed Shells

---

Beef stuffed shells are a delicious and hearty meal that combines flavorful ground beef with creamy cheese in a pasta shell. This dish is simple to make and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of pasta, meat, and cheese creates a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy.

Why Make This Recipe

Making beef stuffed shells is a great way to impress your family or guests with minimal effort. It is a filling meal that can be prepared ahead of time and is easy to customize. Plus, it’s a fun and interactive dish to serve because everyone loves digging into the cheesy goodness. This recipe offers great flavor and is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How to Make Beef Stuffed Shells

Follow these easy steps to create delicious beef stuffed shells that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
4. In a bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture.
6. Spread half of the marinara sauce in a baking dish, and place the stuffed shells on top.
7. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Beef Stuffed Shells

Beef stuffed shells can be served right from the baking dish. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. Pair them with a simple side salad or garlic bread to round out your meal. These shells are best enjoyed warm and straight from the oven.

How to Store Beef Stuffed Shells

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stuffed shells for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Beef Stuffed Shells

• Be careful not to overcook the pasta shells; they should be al dente so they can hold the filling without falling apart.
• You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

Variation (if any)

You can easily make vegetarian stuffed shells by replacing the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or lentils. Additionally, try different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make beef stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.

2. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or cream cheese can be good substitutes for ricotta cheese in this recipe.

3. How do I know when the stuffed shells are done?
The stuffed shells are done when the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown, and the filling is heated through.