A rich, cheesy, and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
Ingredients:
For the Pasta & Filling:
✔ 20 jumbo pasta shells
✔ 1 lb ground beef
✔ 1 cup ricotta cheese
✔ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
✔ ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
✔ 1 egg
✔ 2 cloves garlic, minced
✔ 1 tsp dried oregano
✔ 1 tsp dried basil
✔ Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Sauce & Topping:
✔ 2 cups marinara sauce
✔ Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta Shells
🍲 Boil salted water and cook jumbo pasta shells until al dente.
💦 Drain and set aside to cool.
2️⃣ Prepare the Beef Filling
🥩 In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
🧄 Add garlic, oregano, basil, salt & pepper; cook 2–3 minutes.
🔥 Remove from heat & let cool slightly.
3️⃣ Mix the Cheese Filling
🧀 In a bowl, combine ricotta, half the mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg.
🥩 Mix in the cooled beef mixture until evenly combined.
4️⃣ Stuff the Shells
🔥 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
🍅 Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
🥄 Stuff each pasta shell with beef & cheese mixture and place in dish.
5️⃣ Add Sauce & Cheese
🍅 Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
🧀 Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
6️⃣ Bake
🔥 Cover with foil & bake 25 minutes.
🧀 Remove foil & bake 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden & bubbly.
7️⃣ Garnish & Serve
🌿 Let cool a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley.
🍽 Serve warm & enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight!
⏱ Prep Time: 20 mins
⏱ Cook Time: 40 mins
🍽 Servings: 4-6
Tasty Variations:
🌶 Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling.
🍄 Mushroom Lover’s – Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami.
🌿 Veggie Twist – Mix in spinach or zucchini for a healthier version.
🍗 Turkey Option – Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells:
✔ Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier texture.
✔ Don’t overcook the shells – they’ll finish softening in the oven.
✔ Want a richer sauce? Mix marinara with a bit of heavy cream for extra indulgence.
✔ Make ahead! Assemble the dish, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
This dish is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, saucy, and full of flavor!
Enjoy!
