Print

Delightful Stuffed Pasta Shells

Stuffed Pasta Shells filled with a creamy ricotta mixture and topped with marinara and melty cheese, perfect for a warm family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2224 large pasta shells
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add in the pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the meat mixture: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat, stir in minced garlic and oregano, then remove from heat.
  3. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Mix until combined.
  4. Stuff the shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each shell with the filling and place in the baking dish.
  5. Top it off: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake to perfection: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve and enjoy: Let cool for a few minutes and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

Can substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based meat. This recipe can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffed pasta shells, Italian recipe, comforting dinner, family meal, cheesy pasta