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Beef Stuffed Shells

Beef Stuffed Shells
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Beef Stuffed Shells are a comforting and hearty dinner featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef and creamy cheeses, all baked in a rich marinara sauce. This easy, family-friendly recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and delivers a delicious balance of flavors and textures, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

  • 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells

Beef Filling:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheese Mixture:

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Sauce:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Boil jumbo pasta shells in salted water until al dente—firm but tender enough to hold the filling. Drain and place them on a baking sheet lined with a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with minced garlic and chopped parsley until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  3. Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the cooked beef mixture. Stir well to create a creamy, evenly mixed filling ready for stuffing.
  4. Stuff the Shells: Use a spoon to carefully fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Fill generously but avoid overstuffing to prevent bursting during baking.
  5. Assemble and Bake: Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer, then spoon additional sauce over the top. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and heated through.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the shells; aim for al dente to maintain shape after baking.
  • Drain cooked beef well to remove excess fat and prevent greasiness.
  • Allow the baked shells to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for flavors to meld.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for vibrant, clean flavors.
  • Choose a sturdy casserole dish to ensure even cooking and avoid spills.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef stuffed shells, stuffed pasta shells, family dinner, baked pasta, comfort food, easy dinner, gluten-free pasta recipe

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