Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells

Name: Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups tomato sauce; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil and oregano); Salt & pepper to taste; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Published: March 23, 2025

by mimi

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells are incredibly easy to prepare, making family dinners stress-free
The flavor profile is a comforting combination of savory beef and tangy cheese
Visually appealing with their golden-brown top and bright sauce, they are a feast for both eyes and stomach
They’re versatile enough to customize with any favorite ingredients or sauces you have on hand

I still remember the first time I made these Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells for my family. They devoured them faster than I could say “seconds,” leaving me wondering if I had made enough

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Jumbo Pasta Shells: Look for sturdy shells that can hold the filling without breaking apart during cooking.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to keep it flavorful but not overly greasy.
Onion: Dice finely; it adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances flavor; use 2-3 cloves minced for an aromatic boost.
Tomato Sauce: Opt for your favorite brand or homemade; this adds moisture and tanginess.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese gives a rich texture; make sure it’s fresh!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Choose whole milk mozzarella for melty goodness on top.
Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of basil and oregano enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
Salt & Pepper: Don’t skip seasoning; it brings out all those wonderful flavors!
Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle on top before baking for an extra layer of cheesy delight.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook jumbo pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions and drain them gently.

Sauté the Filling: In a pan over medium heat, sauté diced onion until translucent and fragrant. Add minced garlic and ground beef; cook until browned throughout.

Add Tomato Sauce: Stir in tomato sauce along with dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until flavors meld beautifully.

Create Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Stuff each shell generously with the meat mixture followed by ricotta mixture.

Bake Until Golden: Place stuffed shells in a baking dish lined with remaining tomato sauce. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top then bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Get ready for an explosion of flavors as you pull those cheesy masterpieces from your oven! Your kitchen will smell heavenly as you serve these beauties hot from their cozy baking abode.

As you gather around your table filled with smiles after serving up these Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells, remember that food is best when shared! Enjoy every moment together—after all, that’s what good cooking is truly about

You Must Know

Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells are perfect for family gatherings
The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone asking for seconds
Experimenting with spices can elevate the dish to a whole new level, making it a memorable meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the pasta shells until al dente, then prepare the beef filling while they cool. This method ensures everything is perfectly timed and flavorful.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use freshly grated cheese for a richer taste that melts beautifully
Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer for full flavor development
Keep an eye on your pasta; overcooked shells lose their structure and stuffing potential

Nothing beats the joy of seeing my friends’ faces light up when they taste these hearty beef-stuffed pasta shells at dinner parties.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make these pasta shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

What sides pair well with hearty beef-stuffed pasta shells?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements these pasta shells perfectly.

Can I freeze leftovers of hearty beef-stuffed pasta shells?

Absolutely! They freeze well and can be reheated directly from frozen.