Looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious? These Ground Beef & Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells are the perfect combination of hearty, cheesy, and flavorful! Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef and creamy cheese, then baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, fun to assemble, and tastes like it came straight from your favorite Italian restaurant. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this irresistible dish!
These Ground Beef & Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Jumbo pasta shells are generously filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese, then baked in a zesty marinara sauce. The result is a dish that’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite.
Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, this recipe is easy to make and sure to satisfy your cravings. It’s a crowd-pleasing favorite that combines simple ingredients for an unforgettable taste. Prep time is quick, and baking brings everything together in a gooey, cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to impress.
Add the shells to some salted boiling water and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until they are al dente. Don't overcook them as they will be too soft and break apart. Drain, rinse, and set aside to cool.
To make the ricotta mixture, add the ricotta to a bowl followed by the parmesan, basil, and the egg. Mix until well incorporated and set aside.
Add the ground beef to a pan over medium high heat. Place the ground beef in and fry until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess oil. Once cooked, move the beef to one side of the pan and add in the onion and garlic. Saute until fragrant and mix everything together. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix once again. Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool a little.
Once cooled, mix the ground beef with the ricotta. Pour about 1/4 the marinara into the bottom of a casserole dish. Pick up each shell and carefully stuff the mixture into the shells being careful not to break or damage them. Set each shell evenly into the casserole dish. Spread the remaining marinara over the top and sprinkle the mozzarella over that.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place into a 375 degree preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Take the foil off and place the dish back in the oven for an additional 10 minutes to brown.
Garnish with basil, serve, and enjoy your Stuffed Ground Beef and Cheese Pasta Shell Casserole.
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutritional values are a within reason estimate and my vary depending on several factors.
Make it your own: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or onions to the ground beef mixture for extra flavor and texture. You can also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Cheese options: While ricotta and mozzarella are classic, you can experiment with different cheeses such as provolone, or even a bit of sharp cheddar for a unique twist.
Sauce swap: If you’re not a fan of marinara, you can use a creamy Alfredo sauce instead for a richer, more indulgent version of this dish.
Freezing: These stuffed shells freeze beautifully! Assemble the dish, but skip the baking. Instead, cover and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding extra time until the dish is hot and bubbly.
Make ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells a day ahead. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
Serving suggestions: Pair this dish with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any gathering.