![- Jumbo pasta shells - Ground beef - Ricotta cheese - Shredded mozzarella cheese - Grated Parmesan cheese - Egg - Marinara sauce - Garlic and spices For stuffed shells, you need specific ingredients to create a rich meal. Jumbo pasta shells are the base, holding all the goodness inside. Ground beef gives a hearty flavor. Ricotta cheese adds creaminess, while shredded mozzarella and Parmesan bring that melty goodness. An egg helps bind the filling. Marinara sauce adds moisture and flavor, and garlic and spices enhance the taste. - Vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini - Additional cheese varieties - Spices for enhanced flavor You can customize your stuffed shells. Adding spinach or zucchini makes it healthier and adds texture. You can also try different cheese like goat cheese or cheddar for a unique twist. If you want more flavor, add spices like red pepper flakes or Italian herbs. - Large pot for boiling pasta - Skillet for browning beef - Mixing bowl for filling - Baking dish To make these stuffed shells, you’ll need some tools. A large pot is essential for boiling the pasta. Use a skillet to brown the ground beef. A mixing bowl helps combine your filling. Finally, a baking dish is needed for baking your delicious creation to perfection. First, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add salt. This helps flavor the pasta. Next, carefully add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. After cooking, drain the shells in a colander. Let them cool on a wire rack to prevent sticking together. In a large skillet, set the heat to medium. Add the ground beef and cook it while stirring. You want the meat to be nicely browned and no longer pink. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Then, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step is key for a leaner filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and one egg. Then add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly. You want a creamy and well-combined filling. If it feels too dry, you can add a bit more ricotta. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a teaspoon or a piping bag, take a spoonful of the filling mixture. Gently stuff each cooked pasta shell. Fill them well, but be careful not to overstuff. This helps prevent the filling from spilling out during baking. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This keeps the shells from sticking. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, open side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring each one is coated. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Look for bubbly and golden cheese on top. Enjoy this rich and flavorful meal straight from the oven! For those looking for the complete recipe, you can check the Full Recipe. To make your stuffed shells even creamier, consider adding more ricotta cheese. Ricotta adds richness and smoothness. Mix in an extra half cup for a delightful texture. Choosing the right cheese is also key. Opt for a high-quality ricotta and fresh mozzarella. They melt well and create a lovely, creamy filling. You might even try blending in some cream cheese for extra richness. Covering your dish while baking is crucial. It helps steam the shells and keeps them moist. This will prevent drying out. After 25 minutes, remove the foil to let the cheese brown. For perfect baking times, check your shells. They need about 25 minutes covered and another 10-15 minutes uncovered. Keep an eye on the cheese. It should bubble and turn golden. Pairing sides can enhance your meal. A simple green salad works well with stuffed shells. Garlic bread also makes a great side, adding crunch and flavor. For presentation, place the stuffed shells on a large platter. Drizzle some marinara sauce on top and sprinkle fresh basil. This will make your dish look even more appetizing. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can make a tasty vegetarian version of stuffed shells. Swap the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms. Lentils give a nice texture and flavor. Mushrooms add a rich, earthy taste. You can also use leafy greens like spinach or kale. This adds color and nutrition. Mix the greens into your filling for a fresh twist. If you want to change things up, try turkey or chicken. Both meats have less fat than beef. You may need to adjust the flavors with more spices or herbs. A bit of smoked paprika can add depth. Switching meats can give you a whole new dish while keeping it delicious. Don't just stick to one type of marinara sauce. Explore different flavors! You can try roasted garlic or spicy arrabbiata. Homemade sauce is easy too. Just cook tomatoes, garlic, and herbs in a pot. This allows you to control the taste. Try different sauces to find your favorite blend. Your stuffed shells will be even better with a new sauce! For the full recipe, check out Stuffed Shells Delight with Ground Beef. After you enjoy your stuffed shells, store leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This helps to prevent them from sticking together. To reheat your stuffed shells, use the oven for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shells in a baking dish and cover them with foil. This keeps moisture in, so they do not dry out. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. If you prefer the microwave, place a shell on a plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until hot, but this may not keep them as moist. Stuffed shells last about three days in the fridge if stored properly. Just be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating. For frozen stuffed shells, they can last up to three months. Just remember to label your bags with the date. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking. This ensures they heat evenly. For detailed steps, refer to the Full Recipe. Baking stuffed shells takes about 35 to 40 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an extra 10 to 15 minutes. You want the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown. Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells ahead of time. Assemble the shells and place them in the baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. If you need a ricotta substitute, you have options. Here are some ideas: - Cottage cheese: Blend it for a smoother texture. - Cream cheese: Mix with a bit of milk for creaminess. - Greek yogurt: Use plain for a tangy flavor. - Silken tofu: Blend for a dairy-free option. Yes, stuffed shells can be frozen. After assembling, cover the dish tightly with foil. Freeze them for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. You can bake them straight from frozen, but add about 10 to 15 minutes to the total baking time. In this post, we explored how to make delicious stuffed shells. We covered ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for perfect results. You can customize your dish and make it your own. Remember, you can swap meats, use different sauces, or add vegetables. Storing and reheating are essential for maintaining taste. With these steps, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal any time. Try this dish, and impress your friends and family with your cooking skills. Enjoy every bite!](https://lazychefmagic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ff085c14-849f-45d7-97c0-220cf75019ec-768x768.webp)
Are you ready to impress your family with a delicious dinner? Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef are rich, creamy, and packed with flavor! In this guide, I’ll share easy steps, tasty variations, and helpful tips to make this meal you’ll want to serve again and again. Get your apron on and let’s dive into making this savory dish that is sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Ingredients
Complete Ingredient List
– Jumbo pasta shells
– Ground beef
– Ricotta cheese
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
– Grated Parmesan cheese
– Egg
– Marinara sauce
– Garlic and spices
For stuffed shells, you need specific ingredients to create a rich meal. Jumbo pasta shells are the base, holding all the goodness inside. Ground beef gives a hearty flavor. Ricotta cheese adds creaminess, while shredded mozzarella and Parmesan bring that melty goodness. An egg helps bind the filling. Marinara sauce adds moisture and flavor, and garlic and spices enhance the taste.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
– Vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini
– Additional cheese varieties
– Spices for enhanced flavor
You can customize your stuffed shells. Adding spinach or zucchini makes it healthier and adds texture. You can also try different cheese like goat cheese or cheddar for a unique twist. If you want more flavor, add spices like red pepper flakes or Italian herbs.
Cooking Tools Needed
– Large pot for boiling pasta
– Skillet for browning beef
– Mixing bowl for filling
– Baking dish
To make these stuffed shells, you’ll need some tools. A large pot is essential for boiling the pasta. Use a skillet to brown the ground beef. A mixing bowl helps combine your filling. Finally, a baking dish is needed for baking your delicious creation to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Pasta
First, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add salt. This helps flavor the pasta. Next, carefully add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. After cooking, drain the shells in a colander. Let them cool on a wire rack to prevent sticking together.
Cooking the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, set the heat to medium. Add the ground beef and cook it while stirring. You want the meat to be nicely browned and no longer pink. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Then, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step is key for a leaner filling.
Making the Filling Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and one egg. Then add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly. You want a creamy and well-combined filling. If it feels too dry, you can add a bit more ricotta.
Stuffing the Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a teaspoon or a piping bag, take a spoonful of the filling mixture. Gently stuff each cooked pasta shell. Fill them well, but be careful not to overstuff. This helps prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
Assembly and Baking
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This keeps the shells from sticking. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, open side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring each one is coated. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Look for bubbly and golden cheese on top. Enjoy this rich and flavorful meal straight from the oven! For those looking for the complete recipe, you can check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
How to Make It Extra Creamy
To make your stuffed shells even creamier, consider adding more ricotta cheese. Ricotta adds richness and smoothness. Mix in an extra half cup for a delightful texture.
Choosing the right cheese is also key. Opt for a high-quality ricotta and fresh mozzarella. They melt well and create a lovely, creamy filling. You might even try blending in some cream cheese for extra richness.
Ensure Even Cooking
Covering your dish while baking is crucial. It helps steam the shells and keeps them moist. This will prevent drying out. After 25 minutes, remove the foil to let the cheese brown.
For perfect baking times, check your shells. They need about 25 minutes covered and another 10-15 minutes uncovered. Keep an eye on the cheese. It should bubble and turn golden.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing sides can enhance your meal. A simple green salad works well with stuffed shells. Garlic bread also makes a great side, adding crunch and flavor.
For presentation, place the stuffed shells on a large platter. Drizzle some marinara sauce on top and sprinkle fresh basil. This will make your dish look even more appetizing.
For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Variations
Vegetarian Version
You can make a tasty vegetarian version of stuffed shells. Swap the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms. Lentils give a nice texture and flavor. Mushrooms add a rich, earthy taste. You can also use leafy greens like spinach or kale. This adds color and nutrition. Mix the greens into your filling for a fresh twist.
Different Meats to Consider
If you want to change things up, try turkey or chicken. Both meats have less fat than beef. You may need to adjust the flavors with more spices or herbs. A bit of smoked paprika can add depth. Switching meats can give you a whole new dish while keeping it delicious.
Alternative Sauces
Don’t just stick to one type of marinara sauce. Explore different flavors! You can try roasted garlic or spicy arrabbiata. Homemade sauce is easy too. Just cook tomatoes, garlic, and herbs in a pot. This allows you to control the taste. Try different sauces to find your favorite blend. Your stuffed shells will be even better with a new sauce!
For the full recipe, check out Stuffed Shells Delight with Ground Beef.
Storage Info
Proper Storage Techniques
After you enjoy your stuffed shells, store leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This helps to prevent them from sticking together.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your stuffed shells, use the oven for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shells in a baking dish and cover them with foil. This keeps moisture in, so they do not dry out. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. If you prefer the microwave, place a shell on a plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until hot, but this may not keep them as moist.
Shelf Life Information
Stuffed shells last about three days in the fridge if stored properly. Just be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating. For frozen stuffed shells, they can last up to three months. Just remember to label your bags with the date. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking. This ensures they heat evenly. For detailed steps, refer to the Full Recipe.
FAQs
How long does it take to bake stuffed shells?
Baking stuffed shells takes about 35 to 40 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an extra 10 to 15 minutes. You want the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown.
Can I prepare stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells ahead of time. Assemble the shells and place them in the baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you need a ricotta substitute, you have options. Here are some ideas:
– Cottage cheese: Blend it for a smoother texture.
– Cream cheese: Mix with a bit of milk for creaminess.
– Greek yogurt: Use plain for a tangy flavor.
– Silken tofu: Blend for a dairy-free option.
Can stuffed shells be frozen?
Yes, stuffed shells can be frozen. After assembling, cover the dish tightly with foil. Freeze them for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. You can bake them straight from frozen, but add about 10 to 15 minutes to the total baking time.
In this post, we explored how to make delicious stuffed shells. We covered ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for perfect results. You can customize your dish and make it your own. Remember, you can swap meats, use different sauces, or add vegetables. Storing and reheating are essential for maintaining taste. With these steps, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal any time. Try this dish, and impress your friends and family with your cooking skills. Enjoy every bite!
![- Jumbo pasta shells - Ground beef - Ricotta cheese - Shredded mozzarella cheese - Grated Parmesan cheese - Egg - Marinara sauce - Garlic and spices For stuffed shells, you need specific ingredients to create a rich meal. Jumbo pasta shells are the base, holding all the goodness inside. Ground beef gives a hearty flavor. Ricotta cheese adds creaminess, while shredded mozzarella and Parmesan bring that melty goodness. An egg helps bind the filling. Marinara sauce adds moisture and flavor, and garlic and spices enhance the taste. - Vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini - Additional cheese varieties - Spices for enhanced flavor You can customize your stuffed shells. Adding spinach or zucchini makes it healthier and adds texture. You can also try different cheese like goat cheese or cheddar for a unique twist. If you want more flavor, add spices like red pepper flakes or Italian herbs. - Large pot for boiling pasta - Skillet for browning beef - Mixing bowl for filling - Baking dish To make these stuffed shells, you’ll need some tools. A large pot is essential for boiling the pasta. Use a skillet to brown the ground beef. A mixing bowl helps combine your filling. Finally, a baking dish is needed for baking your delicious creation to perfection. First, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add salt. This helps flavor the pasta. Next, carefully add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. After cooking, drain the shells in a colander. Let them cool on a wire rack to prevent sticking together. In a large skillet, set the heat to medium. Add the ground beef and cook it while stirring. You want the meat to be nicely browned and no longer pink. This should take about 6 to 8 minutes. Then, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step is key for a leaner filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and one egg. Then add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly. You want a creamy and well-combined filling. If it feels too dry, you can add a bit more ricotta. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a teaspoon or a piping bag, take a spoonful of the filling mixture. Gently stuff each cooked pasta shell. Fill them well, but be careful not to overstuff. This helps prevent the filling from spilling out during baking. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This keeps the shells from sticking. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, open side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring each one is coated. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Look for bubbly and golden cheese on top. Enjoy this rich and flavorful meal straight from the oven! For those looking for the complete recipe, you can check the Full Recipe. To make your stuffed shells even creamier, consider adding more ricotta cheese. Ricotta adds richness and smoothness. Mix in an extra half cup for a delightful texture. Choosing the right cheese is also key. Opt for a high-quality ricotta and fresh mozzarella. They melt well and create a lovely, creamy filling. You might even try blending in some cream cheese for extra richness. Covering your dish while baking is crucial. It helps steam the shells and keeps them moist. This will prevent drying out. After 25 minutes, remove the foil to let the cheese brown. For perfect baking times, check your shells. They need about 25 minutes covered and another 10-15 minutes uncovered. Keep an eye on the cheese. It should bubble and turn golden. Pairing sides can enhance your meal. A simple green salad works well with stuffed shells. Garlic bread also makes a great side, adding crunch and flavor. For presentation, place the stuffed shells on a large platter. Drizzle some marinara sauce on top and sprinkle fresh basil. This will make your dish look even more appetizing. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can make a tasty vegetarian version of stuffed shells. Swap the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms. Lentils give a nice texture and flavor. Mushrooms add a rich, earthy taste. You can also use leafy greens like spinach or kale. This adds color and nutrition. Mix the greens into your filling for a fresh twist. If you want to change things up, try turkey or chicken. Both meats have less fat than beef. You may need to adjust the flavors with more spices or herbs. A bit of smoked paprika can add depth. Switching meats can give you a whole new dish while keeping it delicious. Don't just stick to one type of marinara sauce. Explore different flavors! You can try roasted garlic or spicy arrabbiata. Homemade sauce is easy too. Just cook tomatoes, garlic, and herbs in a pot. This allows you to control the taste. Try different sauces to find your favorite blend. Your stuffed shells will be even better with a new sauce! For the full recipe, check out Stuffed Shells Delight with Ground Beef. After you enjoy your stuffed shells, store leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This helps to prevent them from sticking together. To reheat your stuffed shells, use the oven for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shells in a baking dish and cover them with foil. This keeps moisture in, so they do not dry out. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. If you prefer the microwave, place a shell on a plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until hot, but this may not keep them as moist. Stuffed shells last about three days in the fridge if stored properly. Just be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before eating. For frozen stuffed shells, they can last up to three months. Just remember to label your bags with the date. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking. This ensures they heat evenly. For detailed steps, refer to the Full Recipe. Baking stuffed shells takes about 35 to 40 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an extra 10 to 15 minutes. You want the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown. Yes, you can prepare stuffed shells ahead of time. Assemble the shells and place them in the baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. If you need a ricotta substitute, you have options. Here are some ideas: - Cottage cheese: Blend it for a smoother texture. - Cream cheese: Mix with a bit of milk for creaminess. - Greek yogurt: Use plain for a tangy flavor. - Silken tofu: Blend for a dairy-free option. Yes, stuffed shells can be frozen. After assembling, cover the dish tightly with foil. Freeze them for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. You can bake them straight from frozen, but add about 10 to 15 minutes to the total baking time. In this post, we explored how to make delicious stuffed shells. We covered ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for perfect results. You can customize your dish and make it your own. Remember, you can swap meats, use different sauces, or add vegetables. Storing and reheating are essential for maintaining taste. With these steps, you’ll enjoy a hearty meal any time. Try this dish, and impress your friends and family with your cooking skills. Enjoy every bite!](https://lazychefmagic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ff085c14-849f-45d7-97c0-220cf75019ec-250x250.webp)
