Ground Beef And Cheese Stuffed Shells

Name: Ground Beef And Cheese Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Table Classics

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Cheese Stuffed Shells for my family! These pasta shells are stuffed to the brim with a savory beef and cheese mixture, then baked in a rich marinara sauce. Every forkful is a delightful burst of flavor that makes weeknight dinners so much more exciting. The best part? They’re pretty easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for busy evenings when I still want to impress everyone at the dinner table!

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-02-28T01:17:35.067Z

Trying out various recipes for stuffed shells led me to create my own delicious version of Ground Beef and Cheese Stuffed Shells. I found that using a combination of ricotta and mozzarella cheese gives the filling the perfect creamy texture while the seasoned ground beef adds depth to the flavor. I also learned that allowing the shells to cool slightly before serving prevents a scary cheese pull that can be hard to manage.

One tip I swear by is to mix some Italian herbs right into the meat mixture. It not only elevates the taste but also infuses the sauce as it bakes. Every bite feels like a little hug from Italy, and my family devours each serving happily!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying with a cheesy goodness everyone will crave
Perfectly seasoned ground beef elevates this classic dish
Baked in a rich marinara sauce that ties all the flavors together

Perfecting the Stuffed Shells

Getting the pasta shells cooked to the right tenderness is crucial. I recommend checking for al dente status a minute or two before the package instructions indicate, as overcooked shells can rupture while stuffing. After draining, let the shells sit for a few minutes; this helps them firm up slightly and makes them easier to handle when filling.

When it comes to the meat mixture, ensuring that the ground beef is nicely browned will enhance the overall flavor of your stuffed shells. Use a wooden spoon to break apart any clumps while cooking, allowing for even browning. The addition of Italian seasoning and garlic powder brings a depth of flavor that makes the filling truly irresistible.

Assembly and Baking Tips

Stuffing the shells can be a bit tedious, but employing a small spoon or even a piping bag can streamline the process significantly. Make sure to fill each shell generously without overstuffing, as this can lead to spills during baking. An assembly line approach makes the task quicker and keeps the kitchen orderly.

When it's time to bake, covering the dish with foil initially traps steam, helping the cheese melt without burning. After the covered baking time, uncovering the dish allows the top layers to bubble and get that lovely golden color. Keep an eye on the shells towards the end to prevent over-browning, and remove them once the cheese is nicely melted and golden.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start!

Ingredients

12 jumbo pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Ensure everything is prepped and ready to go for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results!

Cook the Pasta Shells

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and let them cool slightly.

Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and return to the skillet. Stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Stuff the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Stuff each pasta shell with the cheese and meat mixture and place them in a baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they are well covered.

Bake the Dish

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Cheese Stuffed Shells!

Take a moment to relish the delightful aroma lingering in your kitchen!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. This will give your stuffed shells a mildly spicy note that really enhances the overall flavor!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're in a pinch, ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives to ground beef in this recipe, offering a lighter option while still packing in flavor. Ensure to season these leaner meats generously, as they can sometimes be less flavorful than beef. For those avoiding dairy, consider using a dairy-free ricotta and a nut-based mozzarella alternative.

For those looking for a gluten-free option, try substituting the jumbo pasta shells with gluten-free pasta shells available at many grocery stores. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as gluten-free pasta can vary in texture and may cook faster or slower than traditional pasta.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They actually taste even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. If you’re looking to prep ahead, you can assemble the dish without baking and refrigerate it until you’re ready to heat it up.

To reheat, simply cover the baking dish with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, though keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking the cheese, which can become rubbery.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they're coming straight from the fridge.

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a lighter alternative. Just adjust the seasoning slightly to enhance the flavor.

→ What variations can I try?

Feel free to mix in veggies like spinach or mushrooms into the filling for an added nutritional boost, or try different cheeses like feta for unique flavors.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just reheat thoroughly before serving.