This recipe gives you warm, rich food that many will love. You will fill big shells with a mix of beef and soft cheese. You can make it for a week night or for guests. Try a similar pasta idea for a cream feel with Creamy Beef and Shells.

why make this recipe

This dish gives taste and calm feel. It packs meat and cheese in one bite. You can make it ahead and bake later. Kids like the cheese. If you like easy crowd food, see a simple roll idea like Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas.

how to make Classic Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

You cook shells and make a beef mix. You fill shells with the mix and set them in sauce. You bake until the top is gold and the cheese is soft. You can change the cheese or add herbs for more taste. For more meat mix ideas, try a rich meat idea like Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks (Alt).

Ingredients :

1 box jumbo pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions :

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the filled shells in the dish, seam side up.
Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve.

how to serve Classic Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Serve hot from the oven. Add a green side like a small salad. A slice of warm bread fits well. You can add red pepper flakes for heat. For side idea swaps, look at a hearty bake like Ground Beef Philly Cheesesteaks.

how to store Classic Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Cool to room temp first. Cover the dish with a lid or foil. Store in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. To freeze, put shells in a tight box or wrap well. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before you bake again.

tips to make Classic Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Do not overcook shells. Keep them firm.
Drain cooked beef well. This cuts oil in the mix.
Mix the filling with a spoon not a blender. You want a chunky feel.
Use fresh cheese when you can for best taste.
Want one pan meal tips? See a simple oven dish idea at Hobo Casserole Ground Beef & Potatoes.

variation (if any)

Swap ground beef for ground turkey or sausage.
Use spinach or chopped herbs in the filling.
Try ricotta with cottage cheese to cut cost.
Add chopped mushrooms for more bite.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Fill shells and cover. Keep in the fridge up to one day. Bake when you need it.

Q: Can I freeze the cooked dish?
A: Yes. Cool it and wrap tight. Freeze up to two months. Reheat in the oven.

Q: Can I use small shells?
A: You can, but use less filling per shell. Bake time stays the same.

Q: Do I need to add egg?
A: The egg helps bind the mix. You can skip it, but the mix may be softer.

Conclusion

For another clear guide and tips on stuffed shells, see this external recipe page: Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef – Real Food Whole Life.