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Introduction
Warm, cheesy, and packed with rich, savory flavor, this baked beef stuffed shells dish is the ultimate comfort food. Tender pasta filled with seasoned ground beef and covered in a hearty tomato sauce, then topped with melted, golden cheese—every bite is satisfying and delicious. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients (Servings: 4–6)
- 20–24 jumbo pasta shells (or large pasta rolls)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional but recommended)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook until soft, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add ground beef, cook until browned, and drain excess fat.
Stir in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let cool slightly.
3. Mix the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese (if using) with half of the mozzarella and a bit of Parmesan.
Mix in the cooked beef mixture until well combined.
4. Stuff the Shells
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
Fill each shell with the beef mixture and place in the dish.
5. Assemble & Bake
Pour remaining sauce over the stuffed shells.
Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden top.
6. Serve
Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Conclusion
This cheesy beef stuffed shells bake is everything you want in a comforting meal—rich, hearty, and loaded with flavor. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and gooey melted cheese makes it a dish everyone will love. Easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
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