Welcome

This is a warm, home meal that feeds a family. You will make big pasta shells filled with meat and cheese. The dish looks nice and tastes rich. If you like simple oven food, try this. You can also learn more about creamy beef and shells for a similar idea.

why make this recipe

You get a full meal in one dish. The beef adds deep taste. The cheeses give a soft, rich bite. You can make it ahead and heat it later. It works for a weeknight or for guests. For other easy beef ideas, see easy cheesy ground beef enchiladas.

how to make Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

You cook the shells. You cook the beef mix. You mix the cheeses and beef. Then you fill the shells and bake them. Use a pan that fits all shells in one layer. You can change herbs and cheese as you want. For a quick meat cook trick, check a ground beef philly cheesesteak method.

Ingredients :

24 jumbo pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

You can read a full beef stew with dumplings ingredient list for more stew ideas.

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta shells by package notes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft.
Add the ground beef, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the beef is brown. Drain any fat.
In a bowl, mix ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley. Stir in the cooled beef.
Spread half the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
Stuff each shell with the beef and cheese mix and place in the dish.
Pour the rest of the sauce over the shells. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake 10 more minutes, until the cheese bubbles and turns light brown.

For another cook path you can read a philly cheesesteaks recipe to learn beef sear tips.

how to serve Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Let the dish sit 5 minutes after you take it from the oven. Serve with a simple green salad. Add warm bread on the side. A small spoon of extra sauce on each plate helps. You can top with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan.

how to store Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Cool to room heat before you store. Cover the dish with foil or move to a airtight box. Keep in the fridge up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tight and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

tips to make Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Use dry shells and cool them well so they do not fall apart.
Drain beef fat well for less grease.
Add a beaten egg to the cheese mix to help it hold shape.
Use fresh parsley for bright taste.
Do not overcook shells on the stove; they will cook more in the oven.

variation (if any)

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage.
Add spinach or chopped cooked mushrooms to the cheese mix.
Use a mix of provolone and mozzarella for a milder melt.
Try a spicy marinara for a hot kick.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shells?
A: Yes. Thaw them first or add a little bake time.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble, cover, and chill. Bake when ready.

Q: How do I reheat one serving?
A: Use a microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or warm in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

Q: Can I use low fat cheese?
A: Yes, but the dish will be less rich. It will still taste good.

Q: Do I need to boil shells very long?
A: No. Stop at al dente. They will finish in the oven.

Conclusion

For a full write-up with photos and more notes, see the original Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef – Real Food Whole Life.