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Stuffed Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

A delicious and hearty meal featuring jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a flavorful beef and cheese filling, perfect for families and meal prep.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base
  • ½ pound jumbo pasta shells Large shells for stuffing.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Heart-healthy fat for sautéing.
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped Adds flavor and sweetness.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor and aroma.
Filling
  • 1 pound ground beef Main protein source for stuffing.
  • 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning Herbs to deepen the flavor.
  • 1 cup spaghetti sauce (for filling) Adds moisture and flavor.
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese Creamy, soft texture for filling.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided For filling and topping.
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese Adds richness and flavor.
  • 1 large egg, beaten Binder for the cheese filling.
Assembly
  • 1 cup spaghetti sauce (for assembly) Layer on the bottom of the baking dish.
  • Extra cheese mozzarella and parmesan cheese For topping before baking.

Method
 

Prepare the Pasta Shells
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  3. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions (about 10-12 minutes).
  4. Drain and rinse the shells under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  5. Arrange the shells on a baking sheet to dry.
Cook the Beef Filling
  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté chopped onion for 4-5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
  5. Drain excess fat if necessary and stir in Italian seasoning and spaghetti sauce.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
  1. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, ½ cup parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
  2. Add the cooled beef mixture to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
Assemble the Dishe
  1. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Spread 1 cup of spaghetti sauce evenly across the bottom.
  3. Fill pasta shells with cheese and beef mixture and arrange in the baking dish.
Top and Bake
  1. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the stuffed shells.
  2. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  3. Uncover for the last 5-10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve
  1. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve with marinara sauce.

Notes

Meal prep-friendly. Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze uncooked shells for up to 3 months.