The moment you sink your teeth into a Beef Stuffed Shell, you’re greeted by a savory explosion of flavors. Imagine tender pasta shells generously filled with seasoned beef, creamy ricotta, and a sprinkle of mozzarella, all bubbling under a rich marinara sauce. It’s the kind of dish that wraps around your soul like a warm hug on a cold day, beckoning you to indulge just one more time.
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This Beef Stuffed Shells recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about reliving cherished memories in the kitchen with family. Picture this: the aroma of garlic wafting through the air as you prepare for a cozy Sunday dinner. Perfect for gatherings or simply when you need to treat yourself, these shells promise an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds—and maybe thirds!
Why You'll Love This Beef Stuffed Shells
- This incredible Beef Stuffed Shells transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Beef Stuffed Shells:
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are the stars of the show! Choose large shells that can hold all your delicious stuffing without tearing.
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier filling that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
- Ricotta Cheese: This creamy goodness adds richness to the filling; look for fresh ricotta for best results.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle this on top before baking to achieve that gooey, bubbly finish we all love.
For the Sauce:
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or whip up homemade marinara to elevate this dish even further.
End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”
Cooking Instructions
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Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Beef Stuffed Shells:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish with cooking spray so those stuffed shells don’t stick like they’ve got commitment issues.
Step 2: Boil Those Shells
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them well and set aside—don’t let them cuddle together just yet!
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain excess grease and stir in ricotta cheese along with salt, pepper, and half of your mozzarella cheese. Mix it all together like you’re preparing for a dance-off.
Step 4: Stuff Those Shells
Carefully fill each shell with generous spoonfuls of your beef mixture—don’t be shy! Place each stuffed shell seam-side up in your prepared baking dish like they’re settling into bed after a long day.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells until they’re generously covered (but not drowning!). Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top because more cheese is always better.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown—your house should smell amazing right about now!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your delightful creation while basking in compliments—you’ve earned them!
You Must Know About Beef Stuffed Shells
- This showstopping Beef Stuffed Shells delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta until al dente while browning the ground beef in a separate skillet. Once the beef is ready, mix in your favorite sauce and cheese before filling the shells. This sequence keeps everything warm and perfectly timed for assembly.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to customize your Beef Stuffed Shells with different cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella. You can spice things up with Italian herbs or add sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Beef Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Beef Stuffed Shells
- This professional-quality Beef Stuffed Shells relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
There was that one glorious evening when I first served Beef Stuffed Shells to my friends. As they devoured every bite, I realized I had found my culinary calling—who knew cheesy goodness could create such joy?
FAQs
What is Beef Stuffed Shells?
Beef stuffed shells are a delicious Italian-American dish that features large pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, ricotta cheese, and spices. This comforting meal often includes marinara sauce poured over the shells before baking. It’s a popular choice for family dinners and gatherings due to its hearty flavor and satisfying texture. The combination of tender pasta and flavorful filling makes beef stuffed shells a favorite among many.
How do you make Beef Stuffed Shells?
To make beef stuffed shells, start by cooking the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. While they cook, brown ground beef in a skillet with onions and garlic. Mix the cooked beef with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Once combined, fill the shells with this mixture, place them in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and bake until bubbly. This simple process results in a mouthwatering meal that delights everyone at the table.
Can you freeze Beef Stuffed Shells?
Yes, you can freeze beef stuffed shells! To do this, prepare the dish as instructed but don’t bake it. Instead, assemble the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe container with sauce on top. Cover tightly and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. Freezing them allows you to enjoy this comfort food whenever you need a quick meal without compromising on flavor.
What can I serve with Beef Stuffed Shells?
Beef stuffed shells pair wonderfully with various side dishes. A fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the stuffed shells nicely. Garlic bread is also an excellent option for soaking up any leftover sauce. For something heartier, consider serving steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus alongside your meal. These sides enhance the dining experience while keeping the focus on those delicious beef stuffed shells.
Conclusion
In conclusion, beef stuffed shells offer a delightful combination of flavors that make them perfect for any dinner occasion. With their easy preparation and satisfying taste, they are sure to become a family favorite. By following simple steps like cooking pasta and creating a tasty filling, anyone can enjoy this dish at home. Remember to try freezing leftovers for later enjoyment or serving them with your favorite sides to elevate your meal experience further. Enjoy making these scrumptious beef stuffed shells today!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Beef Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Beef Stuffed Shells are a comforting Italian-American classic that brings together jumbo pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, all topped with rich marinara sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Cook pasta shells in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess fat, then mix in ricotta, salt, pepper, and half of the mozzarella.
- Fill each shell with the beef mixture and place seam-side up in the baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 stuffed shells (about 300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
