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Beef-Stuffed Shells: A Delicious Recipe for a Hearty Dinner

  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Savor the comforting flavors of beef-stuffed pasta shells, filled with a rich blend of ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella, all baked in marinara sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and is sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 large pasta shells
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
  2. Once boiling, add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
  4. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  5. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
  6. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  7. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  8. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir well to combine.
  9. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
  10. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup), grated Parmesan cheese, and the egg.
  11. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  12. Add the cooled beef mixture to the cheese mixture and stir until evenly combined.
  13. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  14. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  15. Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully fill it with the beef and cheese mixture using a spoon. Fill each shell generously but avoid overfilling to prevent spillage.
  16. Place the filled shells in the baking dish, open side up, in a single layer.
  17. Once all shells are filled and arranged in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, ensuring they are well covered.
  18. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the sauce.
  19. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it does not touch the cheese.
  20. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  21. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  22. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
  23. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
  24. Serve the beef-stuffed shells warm, either directly from the baking dish or plated individually.
  25. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Notes

  • If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
  • Transfer any remaining stuffed shells to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
  • You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes

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Find it online: https://homecookmaria.com/beef-stuffed-shells/