Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

Name: Ground Beef Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Extra mozzarella cheese for topping

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Delicious pasta shells filled with savory ground beef and topped with marinara sauce.

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2025-12-25T17:07:05.438Z

Ground beef stuffed shells are a comforting and hearty dish that will bring warmth to your table. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, these stuffed pasta shells are both satisfying and delicious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty filling that satisfies hunger
Cheesy and savory flavors in every bite
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

      

A Comforting Family Favorite

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are more than just a meal; they are a delightful experience that brings comfort to the dinner table. This recipe blends savory ground beef with creamy cheeses, creating a satisfying dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The large pasta shells are perfect for holding the hearty filling, making each bite deliciously filling and enjoyable. Ideal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.

The combination of flavors in this recipe is truly remarkable. The rich, savory taste of the ground beef pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta and the gooey mozzarella. Topped with zesty marinara sauce, this dish offers a well-rounded flavor profile that is hard to resist. Whether served with a side salad or some garlic bread, Ground Beef Stuffed Shells make for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of Ground Beef Stuffed Shells is their suitability for meal prep. This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled, allowing you to prepare several servings at once. After baking, simply allow the shells to cool and then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They can be reheated quickly for a delicious meal on busy days, making them an excellent choice for those looking to save time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor.

When freezing, it's best to do so before baking. Assemble the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover them with marinara sauce, and then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes Ground Beef Stuffed Shells an incredibly convenient option for meal planning.

Customizing Your Stuffed Shells

While the traditional recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize your Ground Beef Stuffed Shells. Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for an extra dose of nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as using a blend of cheddar and mozzarella or adding feta for a tangy twist.

For those who prefer a vegetarian option, consider substituting the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables or cooked lentils. This not only maintains the hearty texture of the dish but also offers a delightful variation that is equally satisfying. The beauty of stuffed shells lies in their versatility, allowing you to tailor the recipe to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the stuffed shells

12 large pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Extra mozzarella cheese for topping

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Cook the pasta shells

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the filling

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the shells

Using a spoon, fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish.

Add the sauce

Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with Italian seasoning. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells can be served as a standalone dish or paired with sides for a complete meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed shells beautifully. You can also serve garlic bread on the side to soak up any leftover marinara sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

For a more robust meal, consider adding roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli. The freshness of the veggies balances the hearty pasta, making for a delightful dining experience. Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, on top just before serving for a burst of flavor and color.

Storage Tips

To keep your Ground Beef Stuffed Shells fresh, store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil to retain moisture and prevent the cheese from becoming too dry. You may microwave individual servings or reheat the entire dish in the oven at a lower temperature until warmed through.

If you've made a large batch and want to save them for later, freezing is a great option. Ensure that the stuffed shells are completely cool before transferring them to freezer-safe containers. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed for a quick and comforting meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.

→ What can I serve with stuffed shells?

Stuffed shells pair well with a side salad or garlic bread.

→ Can I freeze leftover stuffed shells?

Absolutely! You can freeze them before or after baking. Just make sure they are stored in an airtight container.

→ What other fillings can I use?

You can try using spinach and ricotta, or even adding vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to the beef mixture.