Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the delicious, gooey, and oh-so-satisfying dish of Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells! This delightful recipe is a perfect combination of creamy ricotta, flavorful ground beef, and hearty pasta—all baked to golden perfection in a rich marinara sauce. With a prep time of just 30 minutes, this dish is not only easy to whip up but also family-friendly and budget-friendly, making it a weeknight hero in any kitchen.

Did you know that stuffed pasta can be traced back to ancient times? Different cultures have invented their own versions, from Italian cannelloni to Greek moussaka. When you serve these stuffed shells, you bring a piece of culinary history to your table! Whether you’re comforting a loved one or simply indulging yourself, nothing says, “I care” quite like a homemade meal. If you love this dish, consider checking out other comforting meals on our blog, like the ever-popular baked ziti. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making these scrumptious Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells!

What are Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells?

Have you ever come across a dish that sounds so appealing, you can’t help but wonder about its name? Enter “Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells.” Just saying it makes you want to dig in, right? You might be asking, “Why are they called stuffed shells?” Well, here’s a fun thought: it’s not because they are hidden treasures of the sea but because they’re large pasta shells filled with delightful ingredients, much like a treasure chest! The classic saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” truly reflects why these stuffed wonders have stolen many hearts. So why not give this dish a whirl and see for yourself?

Why You’ll Love Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

You may wonder what makes this dish so beloved across kitchens. First and foremost, it’s the incredible combination of flavors and textures that make every bite a treat. Imagine a creamy blend of ricotta mixed with perfectly seasoned ground beef, all enveloped in tender pasta. Now, let’s not forget the magical marinara sauce that brings it all together, creating an irresistible dish!

Second, cooking at home means you get to save some money. Forget pricey takeout; this recipe is easy on the wallet, costing significantly less than what you’d find at a restaurant.

Lastly, the endless topping possibilities really make this dish shine. Whether you sprinkle on some fresh basil, a handful of gooey mozzarella, or a dash of parmesan, every variation takes those stuffed shells to the next level. If you’re a fan of lasagna, you’ll definitely enjoy this recipe and might want to check that one out too! Ready to try this delectable dish?

How to Make Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Quick Overview

Imagine a dish that’s both impressive and easy to prepare—Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells fits the bill! This recipe delights the senses with its creamy filling, savory beef, and comforting marinara. You can have it on your table in just about 45 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering.

Key Ingredients for Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Here’s what you’ll need to create these mouthwatering stuffed shells:

• Large pasta shells: 12-15 shells (fresh or dried)
• Ground beef: 1 lb (lean works best)
• Ricotta cheese: 15 oz
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 ½ cups (plus extra for topping)
• Shredded parmesan cheese: ½ cup
• Marinara sauce: 2 cups (store-bought or homemade)
• Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
• Italian seasoning: 1 tsp
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Olive oil: 1 tbsp (for cooking)

Here’s a little visual aid to help you gather these ingredients before diving in!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta Shells: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about a minute. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
4. Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
5. Stuff the Shells: Spoon the filling into each pasta shell, making sure they are generously filled but not overflowing.
6. Layer the Dish: Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells seam side up on top of the sauce, then pour the remaining marinara over the shells. Top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal with friends and family!

What to Serve Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells With

To create a complete meal, consider pairing your Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells with a fresh side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. Garlic bread is another great option, perfect for mopping up the delicious marinara sauce. For beverages, a glass of ice-cold lemonade or sparkling water with lime makes a refreshing choice.

Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

1. Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce grease and enhance the flavors in the filling. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken if preferred!
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta shells to ensure they stay firm while baking and don’t fall apart.
3. Add Veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped spinach or bell peppers into the beef mixture for an added nutritional boost.
4. Customize: Feel free to experiment with spices like crushed red pepper for heat or a touch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
5. Don’t Skip the Cheese: For a creamier filling and rich topping, ensure to use quality cheeses and don’t hold back on the mozzarella.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Any leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen! Just label your container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in a microwave-safe dish, cover tightly, and reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

By taking this approach, you not only save time on meal prep for busy days but also enjoy a homemade meal that feels just as good the next day!

Now that you have the recipe and some helpful tips, it’s time to gather those ingredients and get cooking! Your family will thank you for this delicious treat! Enjoy!

Easy Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Comforting pasta shells stuffed with a creamy ricotta and ground beef filling, baked in marinara sauce until golden and bubbly.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients

  

Pasta & Sauce

• 12-15 pieces Large pasta shells fresh or dried
• 2 cups Marinara sauce store-bought or homemade

Meat & Cheese Filling

• 1 lb Ground beef lean works best
• 15 oz Ricotta cheese
• 1.5 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese plus extra for topping
• 0.5 cups Shredded parmesan cheese

Flavorings

• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 tbsp Olive oil for cooking
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper To taste

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
• In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for about a minute. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
• In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Assembly and Baking

• Spoon the filling into each pasta shell, ensuring they are generously filled but not overflowing.
• Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells seam side up on top of the sauce, then pour the remaining marinara over the shells. Top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
• Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal with friends and family!

Notes

Use lean ground beef to reduce grease. Customize the dish with toppings like fresh basil or additional cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Keyword Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Ground Beef Stuffed Shells, Pasta Dish, Stuffed Shells