Welcome to a flavorful adventure in your kitchen with our incredible Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta! This dish is not only creamy and satisfying, but it’s also packed with a wholesome meat filling and a delightful blend of cheeses, making it a beloved meal for families everywhere. If you’ve ever struggled to find a dinner that appeals to both kids and adults alike, look no further! Imagine giant pasta shells filled with seasoned ground beef and smothered in a rich tomato sauce. Sounds delicious, doesn’t it?
Did you know that stuffed shells have roots in Italy but have become a staple in American households? It’s true! Their versatility and comforting flavor can turn any mundane weekday meal into an extraordinary dining experience. With a preparation time of just about 30 minutes, this dish will quickly become a go-to family favorite. So roll up your sleeves, because once you try making this Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta, you’ll be hooked!
What is Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta?
But what exactly is Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta, you might be wondering? Essentially, it’s a delightful play on classic pasta. Picture large pasta shells that are generously filled with seasoned ground beef, rich cheese, and sometimes even a splash of marinara sauce. It’s a playful dish that invites you to engage your love for cooking—after all, who doesn’t love a bountiful plate of pasta? It’s akin to a warm embrace for your taste buds! And as they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” so why not create a dish that evokes smiles and happy tummies all around? Trust us, this Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a meal that everyone will remember!
Why You’ll Love This Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
One of the main highlights of this Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the juicy and flavorful combination of seasoned beef and gooey cheese, which creates a taste sensation that is simply unforgettable. Not only does this dish promise a burst of flavor, but it is also a budget-friendly option that allows you to enjoy a satisfying family meal at home without breaking the bank.
The rich flavors can be perfectly complemented with your family’s favorite toppings—be it fresh basil, crushed red pepper, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese—making it easily customizable! If you’re a fan of hearty dishes, you might also want to check out our Baked Ziti recipe. Both are comforting, filling, and guaranteed crowd-pleasers. So gather your ingredients and prepare to wow your loved ones with this delightful Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta!
How to Make Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta:
Quick Overview
Making Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is easier than you might think! In about 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually impressive. The creamy filling combined with seasoned beef creates a party in your mouth, while the rich tomato sauce enhances its flavor profile beautifully. Trust us, this recipe simplifies the cooking process while delivering everyone’s favorite comfort food!
Key Ingredients for Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
To create your Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 large pasta shells: These will be your little boats of deliciousness.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a flavorful and hearty filling.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: For that creamy texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a tangy flavor.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder for your filling.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: For drenching your stuffed shells.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a savory base.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: To enhance the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get that oven warming while you prepare the filling!
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the beef mixture generously and place them into a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve hot!
Top Tips for Perfecting Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
For the best Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta, consider a few handy tips! First, don’t overcook the pasta; al dente shells are easier to stuff and will hold up nicely in the oven. If you want to sneak in more veggies, finely chopped spinach or mushrooms can work wonders in the filling. If you have leftover filling, consider making a smaller baking dish for lunch! Lastly, ensure you use a good quality marinara sauce—it makes all the difference in flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is often the case with this delicious dish), simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month—just ensure you wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is bubbling.
Conclusion
With its creamy filling, hearty beef, and rich sauce, Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is truly an easy yet memorable dish that your family will love. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for entertaining guests. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delightful culinary creation. Trust us; once you make it, you’ll want to keep this dish in rotation! Happy cooking!
Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Filling
- 12 pieces large pasta shells These will be your little boats of deliciousness.
- 1 pound ground beef Provides a flavorful and hearty filling.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese For that creamy texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully on top.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a tangy flavor.
- 1 piece egg Acts as a binder for your filling.
Sauce and Seasonings
- 2 cups marinara sauce For drenching your stuffed shells.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For a savory base.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning To enhance the flavor profile.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential seasonings!
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the beef mixture generously and place them into a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve hot!
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