Description
These Beef Stuffed Shells are the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something cozy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Packed with seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, this dish is a true family favorite that tastes like it took all day to make. Whether you are meal prepping for the week ahead or hosting a casual dinner party, these jumbo pasta shells are guaranteed to disappear in seconds.
Ingredients
12 oz jumbo pasta shells
1 lb ground beef (85/15 lean)
15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, lightly beaten
24 oz marinara sauce (alcohol-free)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the pasta shells in boiling salted water for 2 minutes less than the package instructions; drain and cool.
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, drain excess grease, and stir in minced garlic for 1 minute.
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Mix the cooked beef into the cheese mixture.
Preheat oven to 375°F and spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Stuff each shell with the beef and cheese filling and arrange in the dish.
Top with remaining marinara sauce and remaining mozzarella.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Ensure your marinara sauce is free from any alcohol or pork products. You can prep these ahead and keep them in the refrigerator before baking. Serve with a fresh side salad.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 4-5 stuffed shells
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg