Main Course

Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef – Cheap Delicious Meals

Name: Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef – Cheap Delicious Meals
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 9
Ingredients: Let’s break down what you need for a perfect batch of stuffed shells with ground beef:; 27 jumbo pasta shells; 1 lb lean ground beef; 28 oz tomato-based marinara sauce; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1 large egg; 2 cups part-skim shredded Italian cheese blend; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; Optional Topping: Chopped fresh parsley

Martha Adams October 6, 2025

Servings: 9 Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before diving into the joy of stuffed shells, let’s chat about what makes this dish sing. You don’t want to serve them alone—they crave companions that will elevate your experience. A crisp side salad with a zesty vinaigrette is fantastic. Something like a simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic dressing can add brightness.

Garlic bread is a must. The crunchy, buttery texture pairs beautifully with the soft, cheesy shells. And don’t forget dessert! A light lemon sorbet after a hearty meal provides a refreshing end. Together, they create a well-rounded feast. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef is a Great Recipe for You

Now, let me tell you why this stuffed shells recipe is a winner. First, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for your family or friends, everyone seems to love pasta filled with cheesy goodness. It’s comforting and satisfying.

I also appreciate its versatility. You can tweak the ingredients slightly based on your family’s preferences. Plus, stuffed shells can be made in advance, saving you time on busy weeknights or for weekend gatherings. When you use quality ingredients, it feels like you’re treating yourself and your loved ones—because you are!

Throughout the years, I’ve prepared many variations of this dish, but I always come back to this hearty rendition. Ground beef brings a richness. Ricotta provides creaminess, while a good marinara sauce ties everything together.

Ingredient List

Let’s break down what you need for a perfect batch of stuffed shells with ground beef:

27 jumbo pasta shells
1 lb lean ground beef
28 oz tomato-based marinara sauce
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 (15-oz) container part-skim ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1 (16-oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and thoroughly squeezed
2 cups part-skim shredded Italian cheese blend (or shredded mozzarella), divided
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Topping: Chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your shells will bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook those jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, but stop about two minutes before they are fully al dente. You’ll want them firm; they’ll finish cooking in the oven later.

Once done, drain the shells and set them aside. If you want to make things easier, toss them in a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat one teaspoon of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The aroma of these two together is simply irresistible.

Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef

Add the pound of lean ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and, if you like a bit of heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to combine everything and let those spices mingle.

Step 5: Mix in the Spinach

Next, add the thawed and thoroughly squeezed spinach to the beef mixture. Stir until it’s incorporated well. Remove the skillet from heat, allowing the filling to cool slightly.

Step 6: Combine the Cheeses

In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, one cup of the shredded Italian cheese blend, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Add the large egg and stir until combined. This mixture will make your shells unbelievably creamy.

Step 7: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

Take a shell in one hand and a spoonful of the ground beef mixture in the other. Stuff the shell generously, making sure to pack it well. Place the stuffed shell seam-side up in a baking dish. Repeat this until all shells are filled.

Step 8: Add the Sauce

Once the shells are nestled nicely in the dish, pour the marinara sauce over them. Make sure they’re evenly coated. Sprinkle the remaining shredded Italian cheese and Parmesan on top. This will create that magical cheesy crust we all love.

Step 9: Bake the Dish

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. This allows the cheese to become gloriously bubbly and golden.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Once the shells are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for color. Dig in and let the flavors melt in your mouth!

How to make Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Recipe Notes

Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are essential for holding in all that rich filling. They’re like little boats of flavor.
Lean Ground Beef: Using lean meat keeps the dish hearty without being overly greasy. Trust me; it makes a difference.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese is the glue that holds everything together. It adds a delightful texture.
Spinach: Adding spinach gives this dish a nutritional boost. Plus, it balances out the richness of the beef and cheese.
Marinara Sauce: Choose a good quality sauce. A rich marinara can elevate this dish. You’re investing in flavor after all.
Cheeses: Mixing cheeses creates depth. The mozzarella gives that gooey texture, while Parmesan offers a sharp bite.

Recipe Variations

Swap the Protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can change the flavor profile entirely.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini. They add hearty textures without meat.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with a blend of different cheeses—feta or goat cheese can add exciting flavors.
Herb Variations: Try different herbs like basil or thyme for a new twist each time.
Richer Sauce: Mix in some cream with your marinara for a creamier sauce.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or diced green chiles to the beef mixture for an added punch.

What type of pasta is best for stuffing?

While jumbo shells are traditional, you can use other pasta shapes as well. Manicotti is popular, too. Just ensure the pasta is large enough to hold a decent amount of filling.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance. Stuff the shells and layer them with sauce, then cover and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Stuffed shells with ground beef is not just a recipe; it’s an experience. Each bite is a combination of savory flavors and textures that keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress and delight.

With flexible variations and easy prep, you can create delicious memories around the dinner table. The next time you decide to cook, I hope you think of these stuffed shells. They’re comfort food at its finest, and who wouldn’t want that? Enjoy!

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Print Recipe

Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef – Cheap Delicious Meals

Author: Martha Adams Cuisine: American Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 25 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 1 hr 10 mins

Servings: 9 Calories: 392

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Before diving into the joy of stuffed shells, let's chat about what makes this dish sing. You don't want to serve them alone—they crave companions that will elevate your experience. A crisp side salad with a zesty vinaigrette is fantastic. Something like a simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic dressing can add brightness.