Description
Classic stuffed shells with meat and cheese combine hearty Italian-American flavors in a comforting casserole. Pasta shells packed with seasoned ground beef and rich cheeses offer a satisfying meal that welcomes you to the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 medium onion
- 2 tsps Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375°F (190°C) for optimal baking conditions.
- Boil jumbo pasta shells in salted water until tender yet firm, then carefully drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté minced garlic and diced onions in a skillet until translucent and fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small crumbles and cooking until completely browned and no pink remains.
- Combine the cooked beef with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, creating a rich and flavorful filling.
- Gently fill each pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture, ensuring they are generously packed but not overstuffed.
- Arrange the filled shells in a prepared baking dish, creating a single layer.
- Generously pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering them completely.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top for a golden, melted finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.
- Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help set the filling.
Notes
- Opt for whole wheat shells to boost fiber and nutrition, creating a healthier version of this classic comfort dish.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian alternative that still delivers incredible flavor.
- Consider preparing extra filling and freezing for quick future meals, saving time and ensuring a delicious backup dinner option.
- Add finely chopped spinach or zucchini to the meat mixture for an extra veggie boost and enhanced nutritional profile without compromising taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg