Beef Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe
Beef Stuffed Pasta Shells are the perfect combination of comfort food and gourmet dining. This dish features large pasta shells filled with a flavorful beef and ricotta mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a great recipe for a family dinner or when you want to impress your guests with a delicious homemade meal.
Look forward to a delightful blend of flavors and textures in each bite of these beef stuffed pasta shells. The tender pasta shells are filled with a rich, savory beef and cheese mixture, and the marinara sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet touch. Topped with melted cheese, this dish is the epitome of comfort food.
Tools to Use
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef Filling:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Stuff the Shells:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture, then place them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are all covered.
- Bake the Shells:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
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Beef Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Tips for Cooking
- Cheese Mixture: You can add some chopped spinach to the cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Sauce: Use your favorite marinara sauce or make your own for a more personalized touch.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great dish for meal prepping.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This Beef Stuffed Pasta Shells recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and creamy cheese is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Indulge in the deliciousness of Beef Stuffed Pasta Shells. This comforting and satisfying dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering. With its rich flavors and gooey cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every bite of this delectable meal!