Stuffed Pasta Shells

When I first pulled the cheesy, bubbling pasta shells out of the oven, the savory aroma wrapped around my kitchen like a warm embrace. Stuffed Pasta Shells are a delicious combination of hearty ground beef and creamy ricotta, baked to perfection in marinara sauce, making them the ultimate comfort food. This recipe takes about an hour, including prep and cooking time, and it works so well because the flavors meld beautifully as the pasta shells bake.

This recipe is perfect for families, gatherings, or any weeknight dinner when you want something delicious without too much fuss. You can easily prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance; just store them in the refrigerator before baking for a quick dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• These pasta shells are filled with a creamy and flavorful beef mixture.
• The bubbling cheese on top creates a delightful texture contrast.
• They are a hearty meal that can feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
• The easy assembly makes this a fun recipe to prepare with kids.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to get started on this delicious dish.

For the Pasta

• 12 large pasta shells

For the Filling

• 1 lb ground beef
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Use low-fat ricotta for a lighter version.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey can replace ground beef.
• Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta.
• Any shredded cheese works for topping.
• Gluten-free pasta shells are available.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your stuffed pasta shells.

Preheat

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the pasta cooks evenly and the cheese bubbles nicely.

Cook

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

Brown

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and minced garlic until browned. Drain excess fat to keep the filling from being greasy.

Mix

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture should be creamy yet well-seasoned.

Stuff

Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Make sure to pack the filling in well for maximum flavor.

Spread

Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. This layer prevents sticking and adds flavor.

Arrange

Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish and top with the remaining marinara sauce. Ensure every shell is coated for the best taste.

Sprinkle

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. This will create a delicious, golden cheese crust while baking.

Cover

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. This helps the pasta shells steam and flavor throughout.

Uncover

Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden. This step reveals the beautiful cheese layer.

Cool

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. This waiting time allows the filling to settle.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: yes, they freeze well for up to 2 months.
Reheat: microwave on medium for 3-5 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Use high-quality marinara sauce for enhanced flavor.
• Ensure not to overcook the pasta during the initial boiling phase.
• Experiment with adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the filling.
• Top with fresh basil for a fragrant finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Pair with garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
• Enjoy at family gatherings or potluck events for a crowd-pleasing dish.