Beef-Stuffed Shells: The Ultimate Cheesy Pasta Bake for Comfort Food Lovers

Beef-Stuffed Shells: The Ultimate Cheesy Pasta Bake for Comfort Food Lovers

If you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal, look no further than these Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling. This dish combines tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a luscious ricotta mixture, layered with rich marinara sauce, seasoned ground beef, and finished with a blanket of bubbling mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy every craving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
• Rich & Cheesy: Each bite is loaded with creamy ricotta, hearty beef, and melted cheese.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap beef for sausage for a twist.

Ingredients for Beef-Stuffed Shells

For the Pasta Shells:

• 12 jumbo pasta shells (plus a few extra in case of breakage)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Beef Mixture:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup marinara sauce

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Shells

1. Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water according to package directions.
2. Drain and let them cool slightly, being careful not to tear them.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Cook the Beef Mixture

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
2. Drain any excess fat and stir in marinara sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
4. Spoon the beef and marinara mixture over the shells.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
2. Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh salad on the side.

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook the Shells: Cook the pasta shells until just al dente to avoid tearing when stuffing.
2. Smooth Filling: Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off for easy stuffing.
3. Customize the Sauce: Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat or swap marinara with a vodka or Alfredo sauce for a variation.
4. Make It Ahead: Assemble the shells, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or a mix of roasted vegetables.
• Spicy Twist: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of cayenne to the beef mixture.
• Extra Cheesy: Mix shredded mozzarella or provolone into the ricotta filling.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini slices or bell peppers instead of pasta shells for a keto-friendly version.

Perfect Pairings

• Sides: Pair with buttery garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.
• Beverages: Serve with a glass of Chianti or sparkling water with lemon.
• Dessert: End the meal with a classic tiramisu or a simple panna cotta.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

These Beef-Stuffed Shells deliver on every level—comforting, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that feels gourmet but is easy enough for a weeknight. Plus, the customization options make it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire.