Description
Jumbo pasta shells filled with savory beef and cheese, smothered in marinara sauce, and baked to cheesy perfection for the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients
20–24 jumbo pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef (lean preferred)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil, then add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in 1/2 cup marinara sauce, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the cooled beef mixture. Stir until well blended.
Spread 1 cup marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Stuff each shell with the beef-cheese mixture and place in the baking dish.
Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells, then sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Undercook the pasta shells slightly to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
Add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra vegetables.
Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Keywords: stuffed shells, beef pasta bake, baked pasta, Italian stuffed shells, cheesy pasta casserole