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Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
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Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is a hearty and comforting baked pasta dish featuring tender large pasta shells filled with seasoned ground beef and a creamy cheese mixture. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering rich flavors and easy preparation.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz large pasta shells

Beef Mixture

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Cheese Filling

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Sauce

  • 2 cups marinara sauce

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set them aside on a lightly oiled surface to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cool slightly.
  3. Combine Cheese and Beef: In a large bowl, mix the ricotta, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the cooked ground beef mixture until well combined.
  4. Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture, placing them seam side up in a greased baking dish. Cover the bottom with marinara sauce before arranging the shells and then spoon some sauce over the top.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • No-overcook pasta: Cook shells just till al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.
  • Drain beef fat well: Avoid excess grease by thoroughly draining cooked ground beef.
  • Chill the filling: Let the filling cool for easier handling and less messy stuffing.
  • Make ahead: Prepare the shells and filling one day before for a quick bake on the day of serving.
  • Use fresh herbs: Adding fresh basil or parsley before baking enhances aroma and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef stuffed shells, stuffed pasta, baked pasta, family dinner, comfort food, Italian recipe

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/ground-beef-stuffed-shells/