Introduction to Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef
Ah, stuffed shells with ground beef—the perfect dish for today’s busy families! As a fellow mom who juggles countless responsibilities, I know how precious time can be. This recipe saves the day, allowing you to whip up a hearty meal that everyone will love without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine a plate of jumbo pasta shells filled to the brim with a savory beef and cheese mixture, enveloped in rich marinara sauce. It’s not just food; it’s a warm hug on a platter, perfect for making memories with your loved ones!
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef
This stuffed shells with ground beef recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy and quick to prepare. In just over an hour, you can enjoy a comforting meal that feels fancy but is incredibly simple, thanks to its straightforward steps. The blend of flavors—savory beef, creamy cheeses, and zesty marinara—make every bite a joy. Plus, it’s versatile, great for family dinners or a cozy gathering with friends!
Ingredients for Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef
Gathering the right ingredients is key in crafting these delightful stuffed shells with ground beef. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this culinary masterpiece to life:
- Jumbo pasta shells: These larger pasta pieces are the perfect vessels for all the delicious fillings. You can find them in any grocery store, just be sure to get the jumbo size for filling!
- Ground beef: The star of the show! I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the filling flavorful yet lighter. You can also try ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative.
- Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the filling. Yellow or white onions work beautifully, although you could use shallots for a milder taste.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a wonderful aroma and a rich flavor to the dish. Alternatives like garlic powder can be a quick substitute, but fresh is always best!
- Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs including basil, oregano, and thyme, this seasoning blends perfectly to highlight the Italian flair of your dish.
- Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings elevate the flavor of your dish. Don’t underestimate their importance—they help bring all the ingredient flavors together!
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy, rich ricotta adds a luscious texture to the filling. You can mix it with cottage cheese for a twist or even try a dairy-free version if needed.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: This melty cheese binds everything together and adds a lovely stretch to each bite. Feel free to use provolone or a dairy-free cheese alternative!
- Grated Parmesan cheese: This salty cheese introduces a savory depth that’s hard to resist! Freshly grated is best, but pre-grated can work in a pinch.
- Egg: Acts as a binder for the cheese and meat mixture, helping hold everything together. If you prefer an eggless option, you could substitute with a flax egg.
- Marinara sauce: The cherry on top! Layer it generously for a fresh and tangy flavor. Any good-quality jarred marinara will do, or if time allows, homemade is a joy!
- Olive oil: Essential for sautéing the onions and garlic, enhancing their natural flavors. You can swap it for butter or a different cooking oil if desired.
You can find the specific quantities for each ingredient at the end of the article. Now, let’s get cooking and turn these ingredients into a meal that we can all gather around the table for!
How to Make Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the joy of cooking these stuffed shells with ground beef. Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these steps, and you’ll create a dish that brings everyone to the table!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in those jumbo pasta shells and cook until they’re al dente. This usually takes about 10 minutes, but do check the package instructions!
Once they’re done, drain the pasta and rinse it with cool water to halt further cooking. Set those shells aside like precious treasures; they’ll get stuffed in no time!
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Filling
Next up is the meat filling. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Oh, the aroma fills my kitchen every time!
Now, let’s add in the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon, cooking until it’s browned and cooked through. Don’t forget to sprinkle in that Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper! Once it’s done, drain any excess grease and allow it to cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the egg. Mixing these ingredients results in a creamy, decadent filling. Stir in your cooled meat mixture gently until everything blends perfectly.
This cheese mixture is not only tasty, but it’s also the magical glue that keeps all those wonderful flavors together!
Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Shells
Time to assemble! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you haven’t already. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and adds flavor to the shells.
Now, grab your filled pasta shells. Using a spoon or even a piping bag makes this step easier—trust me, it’s worth it! Pack the meat and cheese mixture into each shell, then lay them snugly in the baking dish.
After you’ve arranged all your filled shells, sprinkle the remaining marinara sauce over the top and add a final layer of shredded mozzarella.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and let it bake for another 10 minutes until that cheese is bubbling and beautifully golden.
Let the stuffed shells rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief pause allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier. Trust me, this dish will be the highlight of your dinner!
Tips for Success
- Prepare your ingredients ahead of time to streamline your cooking process.
- For an extra layer of flavor, sauté the garlic slightly longer until it’s golden but not burnt.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be slightly firm to hold the stuffing well.
- Let the stuffed shells rest after baking to maintain their shape when serving.
- Feel free to double the recipe for leftovers—these reheat beautifully!
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta. A deep skillet can also work in a pinch.
- Skillet: To sauté your onions, garlic, and ground beef. A non-stick pan is ideal.
- Mixing bowl: For blending your cheese and meat mixture. Any size bowl will do.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: The perfect size for your stuffed shells. A deeper dish can be used as well.
- Spoon or piping bag: To fill the pasta shells easily. A good old spoon gets the job done!
Variations on Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef
- Turkey or Chicken Substitute: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option that’s just as tasty.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a delightful vegetarian alternative.
- Extra Cheesy: Add more cheeses like feta or gouda to the filling for a richer and more indulgent flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your filling a nice heat boost!
- Dairy-Free Option: Use cashew cheese or vegan ricotta along with dairy-free mozzarella for a fabulous dairy-free stuffed shell!
- Herb-Infused: Enhance flavors by adding fresh basil or parsley into your filling mixture. It brightens everything up!
Serving Suggestions for Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef
- Fresh Salad: Pair the stuffed shells with a crisp side salad for a refreshing balance.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to scoop up every bit of marinara sauce!
- Wine Pairing: A robust red wine, like Chianti, complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs about Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef
Can I make the stuffed shells in advance? Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells a day ahead. Just assemble them and cover tightly before refrigerating. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for ground beef? Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully as lean alternatives. You can even use plant-based meat substitutes for a vegetarian option.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze stuffed shells with ground beef? Absolutely! After assembling, cover them with foil and freeze. They’ll be good for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, just remember to extend the bake time.
What can I serve with stuffed shells? A fresh salad and garlic bread are perfect pairings! A glass of red wine also enhances the meal, creating the perfect dining experience.
Final Thoughts
Making stuffed shells with ground beef is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating moments around the dinner table. As the cheese melts and the aroma fills the kitchen, you’re not just cooking—you’re weaving together memories that your family will cherish. With each delightful bite, you can see the smiles on their faces, reminding you why you love to cook. Plus, this dish adapts beautifully for any occasion, making it a go-to favorite. Embrace the joy it brings, and don’t forget to share your delicious adventures with those you love!
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Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef: A Delicious Recipe Revealed!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious stuffed shells filled with ground beef, cheese, and marinara sauce baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 20–25 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse the pasta with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drain excess grease from the meat mixture and let it cool slightly.
- Make the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Add the cooled ground beef mixture and mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Stuffed Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Arrange the filled shells in the baking dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Let the stuffed shells rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Optional side dishes include a fresh salad and garlic bread.
- Adjust the seasonings to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
