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 large pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Traditional Comforts

I love making Ground Beef Stuffed Shells because they are a comforting and hearty meal that brings the family together. The combination of richly seasoned beef, creamy cheese filling, and marinara sauce creates a delightful flavor explosion. Every time I prepare this dish, it feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover pasta shells and can easily be customized with additional ingredients to suit everyone's tastes.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:41:36.919Z

One of my fondest memories is when I first made Ground Beef Stuffed Shells for my family. The joy on their faces when they took the first bite was priceless! I experimented with different spices and a homemade marinara sauce, which added a special touch that store-bought just can't replicate. The secret is in the garlic and Italian herbs; they really elevate the dish.

When I prepare these shells, I like to assemble them in advance and bake them just before serving. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. I pair them with a fresh garden salad and crusty bread for a complete meal that satisfies every time!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty filling that's satisfying and delicious
Homemade marinara sauce that elevates the flavors
Perfect for meal prep or family gatherings

      

The Perfect Pasta Shells

Choosing the right pasta shells is crucial for the success of this dish. Large pasta shells are ideal because they can hold a generous amount of filling. When cooking the shells, it's essential to boil them just until they are al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during the baking process. If you overcook them, they might tear when you stuff them, leading to a mess instead of beautifully assembled shells.

Additionally, don't skip the step of seasoning the boiling water. A well-salted pot enhances the flavor of the shells, which will add depth to the dish. Always taste a shell after cooking; it should have a slight firmness but not be hard. This balance is essential to ensure a satisfying texture that holds up once baked.

Flavor Fusion in the Filling

The filling is where the magic happens, and each ingredient plays a vital role. The ground beef provides a hearty, rich base, while the onions and garlic add aromatic depth. Italian seasoning brings in the herbs that are synonymous with comfort food. Be careful not to over-season the beef; just a pinch of salt and fresh ground pepper can elevate the natural flavors without overpowering them.

For a creamier texture, I like to mix in some spinach or sautéed mushrooms into the cheese filling. These ingredients not only add nutritional value but also give a nice earthy flavor contrast to the rich beef. If you're short on time, pre-packaged spinach or other veggies can be a great shortcut; just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to prevent a watery filling.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Ground Beef Stuffed Shells:

Ingredients

12 large pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

With these ingredients at hand, you're ready to prepare a delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Ground Beef Stuffed Shells:

Preheat and Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the pasta shells in salted water according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Add the cooked beef mixture and stir until thoroughly mixed.

Stuff the Shells

Take each pasta shell and carefully stuff it with the beef and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.

Assemble and Bake

Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then top with the remaining mozzarella. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy!

Your delicious Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with cooked spinach and mushrooms. You can also experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for added flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells can be prepped up to a day in advance, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. After stuffing the shells and placing them in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time since they will be cold from the fridge. This ensures everything is heated through and the cheese becomes beautifully bubbly.

If you're looking to store leftovers, they can keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze the stuffed shells before baking them; just be sure to cover them securely with foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to use, and bake as directed for comforting leftovers any night of the week.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce. I also recommend garnishing with fresh basil for a burst of color and an herbaceous kick right before serving. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add just the right amount of heat if desired, catering to a range of palates.

For a fun variation, consider serving with different sauces like alfredo or pesto instead of marinara. This allows you to reinvent the dish with each preparation, appealing to different tastes in your household. Feel free to experiment with various toppings; a blend of cheeses can add a unique twist, making every bite something special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you're ready to eat!

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze these stuffed shells?

Absolutely! Freeze stuffed shells before baking. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

→ What can I serve with stuffed shells?

Stuffed shells pair wonderfully with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.