Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A hearty and comforting dish, Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are perfect for family dinners or gatherings. These pasta shells are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and cheese, baked to perfection in marinara sauce.

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:07:08.165Z

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are a classic Italian-American dish that combines the heartiness of ground beef with the comforting texture of pasta. This recipe is perfect for those who love a filling meal that is both delicious and satisfying.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory filling that satisfies your hunger
Cheesy goodness that melts in your mouth
Perfectly baked with a flavorful marinara sauce

      

A Hearty Family Favorite

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are not just a meal; they are a family tradition! This dish has the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite at family gatherings. The combination of the tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and rich cheeses creates a filling that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re serving a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to bring everyone together around the table.

What sets this recipe apart is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or switching up the proteins to include ground turkey or chicken. This makes it a fantastic option for those looking to cater to different dietary preferences. With just a few simple tweaks, you can make this dish your own while still retaining its comforting essence.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're looking to save time during your busy week, Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can make a large batch, freeze the excess, and heat them up whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal. Simply prepare the stuffed shells and freeze them before baking. When you're ready to enjoy, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

This dish also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers. Simply microwave or bake the stuffed shells, and they will taste just as delicious as when they were first made. This makes Ground Beef Stuffed Shells a practical and delicious option for busy families or individuals who want to enjoy homemade meals without the hassle of cooking every day.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Stuffed Shells, consider pairing them with a fresh garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad complements the richness of the stuffed shells, creating a well-rounded meal. You can also serve garlic bread on the side to soak up any extra marinara sauce, making your dining experience even more delightful.

For a complete Italian-themed dinner, consider serving a glass of red wine alongside your meal. A Chianti or a simple Cabernet Sauvignon pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the beef and cheese. This not only enhances the overall dining experience but also brings a touch of elegance to your home-cooked meal.

Ingredients

For the Filling

12 jumbo pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. In a bowl, combine cooked beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture and place them in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Bake

Mix the marinara sauce with garlic powder and onion powder. Pour half of the sauce over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Stuffed Shells!

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

Nutritional Information

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are not only delicious but can also be a balanced meal when prepared mindfully. Each serving provides a hearty dose of protein from the ground beef and cheese, along with carbohydrates from the pasta. To make this dish even healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta shells and lean ground beef, which can reduce the fat content while still delivering great flavor.

Adding vegetables to the filling not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds color and texture to the dish. Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can be great additions that blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. This way, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that is also packed with vitamins and minerals.

Storage Tips

To store leftover Ground Beef Stuffed Shells, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to store them for a longer period, consider freezing them. Wrap each stuffed shell individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen stuffed shells, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and heat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This makes it easy to enjoy homemade comfort food with minimal effort on busy days!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ Can I prepare these shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I serve with stuffed shells?

A side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments.

→ Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled stuffed shells before baking. Just thaw and bake when you're ready to serve.