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These stuffed pasta shells with ground beef are pure comfort on a plate. Generous jumbo pasta shells cradle a savory blend of seasoned ground beef and creamy ricotta, smothered in rich marinara sauce and capped with melted mozzarella cheese. This classic Italian-inspired dish is the perfect weeknight meal that feels special enough for guests yet cozy enough for family dinners.
I first made this to bring a bit of Italian comfort to a busy weeknight. It quickly became a favorite, reminding me that simple ingredients and a little patience go a long way in creating memorable meals.
Ingredients You Need
- Jumbo pasta shells: provide the perfect vessel for the filling. Look for shells that are firm and unbroken so they hold the stuffing well
- Lean ground beef: keeps the dish rich without excess fat, balancing flavor and health
- Ricotta cheese: adds creaminess and moisture to the filling; fresh ricotta is best for a smooth texture
- Marinara sauce: should be quality and flavorful. Homemade or store-bought with herbs and garlic works beautifully
- Shredded mozzarella: melts evenly on top to form the golden, bubbly finish we all love
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish: adds a pop of color and fresh herbal notes
- Garlic powder and onion powder: enhance the meat’s seasoning effortlessly
- Salt and pepper: to taste bring everything together
Detailed Cooking Directions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Shells:
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Properly cooked shells hold their shape and avoid becoming mushy once baked. Drain gently and set aside to cool slightly so they are easier to handle
- Cook and Season Ground Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef thoroughly. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to season the meat deeply as it cooks. Let it cool just enough so it mixes well with the ricotta without melting the cheese
- Mix Filling:
- Combine the cooked and seasoned ground beef with the ricotta cheese and half of the fresh chopped basil or parsley. This mixture will be creamy and flavorful, ready to be stuffed into each pasta shell
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking and add moisture. Stuff each shell with the beef and ricotta mixture and arrange them seam side up in the dish with some space between each shell for even cooking
- Top and Bake:
- Cover the shells with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes to heat through and meld flavors. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly
One of my favorite parts is the aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes. It reminds me of family dinners growing up where everyone gathered around eager to dig in. The combination of melted cheese and tangy marinara brings a cozy, inviting warmth that feels like coming home.
Smart Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through to keep the shells from drying out
Ingredient Variations
Try ground turkey or chicken as a lighter protein alternative while keeping the seasoning mix the same for flavor
Perfect Pairing Ideas
Serve with a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness
Each step of crafting these stuffed shells is a rewarding experience, blending simple ingredients into something truly satisfying. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this comfort dish that shines any day of the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I ensure pasta shells stay firm during baking?
Cook the jumbo pasta shells until just al dente, making sure not to overcook. This helps them retain their shape and prevents them from becoming overly soft or mushy in the oven.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed vegetables for a satisfying meatless variation that still offers great flavor and texture.
- → Should I cover the dish while baking?
Start by baking covered with foil to retain moisture and heat the filling evenly. Then uncover for the last 10–15 minutes to brown and bubble the cheese topping.
- → What herbs work best in the filling?
Fresh basil or parsley add brightness and complement the rich beef and cheese mixture well. Feel free to adjust based on your flavor preferences.
- → How can I adjust the seasoning in the beef mixture?
Season the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper while browning. Taste and adjust seasoning before mixing with ricotta to balance flavors perfectly.