Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food that blends the richness of marinara, the creaminess of ricotta, and the heartiness of seasoned ground beef. Each shell is a perfectly portioned bite of cheesy, meaty goodness, topped with bubbling mozzarella and Parmesan for a golden finish. This dish is ideal for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends. The stuffed shells are easy to prepare yet feel indulgent and satisfying. Pair them with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to delight!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 box jumbo pasta shells (approximately 20-25 shells)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir in the cooked ground beef mixture.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture, then place them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
A Hearty Comfort Food: Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef
Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef is a dish that effortlessly blends the richness of Italian cuisine with the simplicity of everyday cooking. This classic recipe is a perfect balance of savory flavors and creamy textures, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that appeals to people of all ages. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, hosting friends for an evening meal, or looking for a make-ahead dish for busy weeknights, this recipe fits the bill.
The beauty of stuffed shells lies in their versatility. Each jumbo shell serves as a vessel, packed with a delicious filling made from ground beef, ricotta cheese, and Italian seasonings. Smothered in marinara sauce and topped with a generous layer of gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, the dish is then baked to perfection. The result is a golden, bubbly casserole that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
The Origins of Stuffed Shells
While pasta itself is synonymous with Italian cooking, stuffed shells are a more modern twist that likely emerged as a way to celebrate abundance and creativity in the kitchen. Jumbo pasta shells, known as conchiglioni in Italian, are an excellent canvas for imaginative fillings. Traditionally, Italian families would use a mix of ricotta, spinach, and herbs to stuff the shells. Over time, variations began to include heartier ingredients like ground meat, sausage, and different cheeses, reflecting the adaptability of Italian-American cuisine.
Stuffed shells embody the warmth of Italian culinary traditions, emphasizing simplicity, fresh ingredients, and communal dining. It’s a dish that evokes memories of Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and shared meals full of laughter and love.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
The combination of ground beef, ricotta, and marinara sauce creates a depth of flavor that is both hearty and indulgent. The seasoned ground beef provides a robust, savory element, while the ricotta adds creaminess and a touch of tanginess that complements the pasta. The marinara sauce, often enhanced with garlic and herbs, ties everything together with its rich and slightly acidic profile. Finally, the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses add a finishing touch that’s impossible to resist, delivering a golden, bubbling crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender pasta and creamy filling.
This recipe also stands out for its adaptability. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. For instance, swap the ground beef with turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian version. You can also add spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrients and flavor. This flexibility makes stuffed shells a reliable go-to recipe for any occasion.
The Perfect Dish for Every Occasion
Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef is more than just a weeknight dinner option; it’s a dish that shines in a variety of settings. Its presentation, with neatly arranged stuffed shells topped with cheese and sauce, makes it an excellent choice for potlucks, holiday meals, or dinner parties. The individual portions offered by each shell make serving easy and elegant, while the dish’s rich flavors ensure it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
For busy families, the dish’s make-ahead capabilities are a lifesaver. You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance, refrigerate or freeze them, and bake them when needed. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld, resulting in an even tastier dish.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells
To achieve the best results, it’s important to follow a few key tips:
- Cook Pasta Shells Al Dente: Since the shells will continue to cook in the oven, boiling them until just al dente helps them maintain their shape without becoming mushy.
- Drain and Cool Shells Properly: After boiling, drain the shells thoroughly and lay them out on a baking sheet to cool. This prevents them from sticking together and makes stuffing easier.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality marinara sauce, fresh ricotta, and premium Parmesan cheese make a noticeable difference in the final taste.
- Customize the Filling: Don’t be afraid to get creative with the filling. Add cooked spinach, roasted red peppers, or your favorite herbs for a unique twist.
- Layer the Sauce Generously: A good layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish prevents the shells from sticking and ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.
- Don’t Skimp on Cheese: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a melty, golden crust that’s hard to resist.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Stuffed shells are a rich and filling dish that pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the meal. A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the cheese and sauce, while garlic bread or a crusty baguette adds a satisfying crunch. For a more elaborate spread, serve the dish with roasted vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers.
When it comes to beverages, a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, complements the dish’s Italian flavors. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a fruity iced tea can add a refreshing touch.
A Family Favorite
What makes Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef such a beloved dish is its ability to bring people together. The process of making and serving the dish is inherently communal. From stuffing the shells to sharing them around the table, every step of the journey is about connection. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but also steeped in the joy of cooking for loved ones.
For families with children, stuffed shells can also be a fun and engaging recipe to prepare together. Kids can help fill the pasta shells, sprinkle cheese, or arrange the dish, turning dinner prep into a bonding activity.
Conclusion:
Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Italian-inspired comfort food. Its rich flavors, creamy textures, and versatility make it a dish worth adding to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight meal or a festive gathering, stuffed shells are guaranteed to satisfy and impress.
With its ease of preparation and endless customization options, this dish is a reminder of why we turn to classic recipes time and again. They connect us to tradition, bring us comfort, and invite us to savor the simple pleasures of home-cooked meals. So, the next time you’re craving a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner, reach for this timeless recipe and enjoy the magic of stuffed shells.
