Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells

Name: Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 jumbo pasta shells; 1 lb lean ground beef; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano & basil); Salt and pepper to taste

By Lisa

March 24, 2025

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There’s something magical about a warm plate of Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells that can instantly brighten any gloomy day. Imagine sinking your fork into those tender pasta shells filled with flavorful ground beef, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese. It’s like a hug from your grandma but without the awkward questions about your love life.

I remember the first time I made these bad boys; my friends gathered for a movie night. They weren’t expecting much beyond popcorn—and boy, were they surprised when I presented my masterpiece The laughter and compliments that evening were as delightful as the dish itself, proving that these hearty beef-stuffed pasta shells are perfect for any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This comforting dish is easy to prepare even on busy nights
The rich flavors meld beautifully in every bite
Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece at dinner parties
Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences

Everyone always raves about how delicious they are

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large shells hold all the goodness inside; look for firm ones that won’t break during cooking.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease; it balances nicely with the gooey cheese later.
Marinara Sauce: Choose a quality jarred sauce or make your own; it’s the secret weapon for flavor
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Go for fresh mozzarella if you can—meltiness will be off the charts
Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle this on top for an extra kick of flavor; freshly grated is always best.
Garlic Powder: This adds an aromatic depth; if you’re feeling fancy, use fresh garlic instead.
Dried Italian Herbs: Oregano and basil blend beautifully here; they’ll transport you straight to Italy.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors; don’t skimp on seasoning

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta Shells: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions—about 9-11 minutes works well. Drain them gently and set aside.

Prepare the Filling: In a heated skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbled—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic powder and Italian herbs while cooking to infuse flavor.

Mix in Marinara Sauce: Once the meat is cooked through, reduce heat and add half of your marinara sauce directly into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir well to combine—it should have a nice saucy consistency.

Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon or piping bag (fancy), fill each cooked shell generously with the hearty beef mixture. Don’t be shy; load them up

Add Sauce & Cheese Topping: Spread remaining marinara sauce across the bottom of a baking dish. Carefully place each stuffed shell on top of it in a single layer. Finally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese over everything like you’re creating cheesy snowfall.

Bake It Up: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover your baking dish with foil (to keep things cozy). Bake for 20 minutes before removing foil to let that cheese bubble up gloriously for another 10 minutes.

Now sit back and enjoy as your kitchen fills with heavenly aromas that will have everyone racing to the table

After pulling those cheesy delights from the oven, let them cool slightly before serving—nobody wants burnt tongues during this feast Enjoy every bite of these hearty beef-stuffed pasta shells surrounded by family or friends—and maybe share a laugh or two while you’re at it

You Must Know

Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells are not just delicious; they offer a comforting hug on a plate
Their rich flavor and cheesy goodness will have everyone asking for seconds, or maybe even thirds
Plus, they make for an impressive dinner party dish

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente. While they cool, sauté the beef with onions and garlic for maximum flavor. Assemble with cheese and sauce, then bake until bubbly.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add spinach for extra nutrients. Experiment with different cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella to elevate the dish even further.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, keeping them nice and cheesy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure perfect pasta shells, avoid overcooking them; you want a slight bite
Always taste your beef mixture before stuffing to adjust seasoning according to your preference
Lastly, don’t skimp on sauce – it keeps everything moist and flavorful

Sharing these Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone dug in with gusto, leaving only crumbs behind and smiles all around.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I use instead of ground beef in Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils work well as alternatives for a healthier twist.

Can I make Hearty Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them ahead and store in the fridge for up to two days before baking.

How do I prevent my pasta shells from breaking?

Use a gentle touch when stuffing shells and cook them al dente to maintain their structure.

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