Are you ready to take your pasta game to the next level? If you’re craving a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and satisfaction, look no further than these Cheesy Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Filling. This recipe combines tender pasta shells with a rich and flavorful ground beef filling, all smothered in delicious pasta sauce and topped with melted cheese. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Cooks rave about Cheesy Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Filling for several reasons. First, the combination of flavors is just spectacular. The savory ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and creamy cheeses meld together perfectly, creating a filling that bursts with flavor. Second, the dish is wonderfully versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Lastly, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a casual dinner with friends, everyone loves a hearty pasta dish.

What You’ll Need

To whip up these delightful Cheesy Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Filling, gather the following ingredients:

10 oz pasta shells, large
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
1 red pepper, diced
2 tsp garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
2 tsp parsley, dried
1 tsp oregano, dried
1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
3 cups pasta sauce, divided
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp fresh basil leaves

Appliances & Accessories

Make sure you have the following appliances and accessories on hand to make your cooking experience easier:

Large pot for boiling pasta
Skillet for sautéing
Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
Baking dish for assembling the stuffed shells
Oven for baking the dish

From Start to Finish: Cheesy Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Filling

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the large pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and red pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, about 6-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, parsley, and oregano. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4: Mix the Cheeses

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This creamy mixture will serve as the heart of your stuffed shells.

Step 5: Assemble the Stuffed Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread 1 cup of pasta sauce on the bottom. Take each cooked shell and fill it generously with the beef and vegetable mixture, followed by a spoonful of the ricotta cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up.

Step 6: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Once all shells are stuffed, pour the remaining pasta sauce over the top, ensuring all shells are covered. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Filling!

Customize for Your Needs

Feel free to make this dish your own! Here are some ideas for customization:

Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra veggies.
Use different cheeses like feta or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
Substitute the pasta sauce with a homemade marinara for a fresher taste.

Cook’s Commentary

Making Cheesy Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Filling is not just about following a recipe; it’s about crafting a dish that resonates with warmth and love. The process of stuffing each shell is therapeutic and rewarding. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is nothing short of heavenly. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients; this dish is forgiving and welcomes creativity! I recommend serving it with a side salad and crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

How to Store & Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this tasty dish!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.

Questions People Ask

Can I make Cheesy Italian Stuffed Shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are coming straight from the fridge.

What sauce should I use for stuffed shells?

You can use any pasta sauce you love! Marinara, meat sauce, or even a white sauce can work beautifully. Just ensure it complements the flavors of your filling.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled shells before baking. Just wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What can I serve with stuffed shells?

Stuffed shells pair wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine can also elevate your meal!

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Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delightful evening in the kitchen. The Cheesy Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Filling are not only delicious but also a great opportunity to create memories with loved ones around the dinner table. So, roll up your sleeves, put on some music, and let’s cook!