Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Deliciously cheesy and savory, these ground beef stuffed shells are a comforting dish that your whole family will love.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2025-12-25T15:28:13.816Z

This recipe for ground beef stuffed shells combines savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and a rich marinara sauce, all enveloped in tender pasta shells. It's a hearty meal that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for a satisfying dinner
Rich flavors from seasoned beef and melty cheese
Easy to make and can be prepared in advance

      

A Comforting Family Favorite

Ground beef stuffed shells are the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone to the table. This dish combines tender pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and creamy cheeses, topped with a rich marinara sauce. It's a satisfying meal that warms the heart and satisfies hunger, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely family dinners.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its delicious flavor but also in its versatility. You can easily modify the filling to include your favorite ingredients, such as spinach or mushrooms, making it a great way to incorporate vegetables into your family's diet. This adaptability ensures that even the pickiest eaters can find something to love.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of ground beef stuffed shells is how well they lend themselves to meal prepping. You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for a quick weeknight dinner. Simply assemble the stuffed shells, cover them with marinara sauce, and store. When you're ready to eat, just pop them in the oven, and you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

This makes it an excellent option for busy families or individuals who want to save time while still enjoying homemade meals. By preparing a batch ahead of time, you can ensure that you always have a hearty dinner option on hand, eliminating the need for takeout or last-minute cooking.

Customizing Your Stuffed Shells

Customization is key when it comes to making stuffed shells. While the classic recipe calls for ground beef, feel free to experiment with other proteins such as turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives. Each option brings its unique flavor profile, allowing you to cater to different dietary preferences and taste buds.

You can also play around with the types of cheese used in the filling. For a tangy twist, consider adding goat cheese or feta. Additionally, incorporating herbs like fresh basil or parsley can elevate the flavor even further, providing a burst of freshness that complements the savory beef and creamy cheeses.

Ingredients

For the Stuffed Shells

12 jumbo pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Marinara Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Prepare the Pasta

Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Cook the Beef

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine cooked beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture and place them in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Bake

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed shells!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, storing them properly is essential to maintain their flavor and texture. Allow the stuffed shells to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

For best results, if frozen, allow the stuffed shells to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This ensures even heating and helps preserve the quality of the dish, so you can enjoy it just as much the second time around.

Serving Suggestions

Ground beef stuffed shells pair well with a variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete meal. A simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette or garlic bread can complement the rich flavors of the stuffed shells beautifully. You might also consider serving it with steamed vegetables for a nutritious boost.

For those who enjoy a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can enhance the dish's flavor profile. Don't forget to have some extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling—it's a delightful addition that will elevate the overall dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative.

→ Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled shells before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to serve.

→ What side dishes go well with stuffed shells?

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.