Introduction

Craving Comfort Food? These Ground Beef Stuffed Shells Are the Answer!

When the craving for cheesy, saucy comfort food hits, Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are your go-to solution. Picture this: jumbo pasta shells filled with seasoned ground beef, layered with rich tomato sauce, and smothered in melted mozzarella and parmesan. This dish hits all the right notes — savory, creamy, satisfying — and it’s easier than you think.

Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners, these stuffed shells are a family-favorite and beginner-friendly. If you're looking for a comforting Italian-style meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this Ground Beef Stuffed Shells recipe is exactly what you need.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Hearty comfort food that warms the soul
✅ Ready in under 40 minutes
✅ Simple pantry ingredients – no fancy groceries needed
✅ Perfect for meal prep – freeze for later!
✅ Easily customizable – swap in turkey, add spinach, or use ricotta
✅ Loved by kids and adults alike

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta

20 jumbo pasta shells (plus a few extra in case of breakage)
Salt for boiling water

For the Filling

1 lb ground beef (substitute with ground turkey for a leaner version)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 egg (helps bind the filling)
1 cup shredded mozzarella
¼ cup grated Parmesan

Pro Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes richer than pre-shredded varieties.

For the Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
½ teaspoon sugar (balances acidity of the tomato)

For Topping

1 cup shredded mozzarella
2 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional garnish)

💡 Want to make it dairy-free? Use vegan ricotta and shredded plant-based cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta Shells
Boil the shells in salted water until just al dente (about 9 minutes). Drain and let them cool slightly. (Tip: drizzle a little olive oil to prevent sticking.)
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions until soft (3–4 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add ground beef, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned (6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat.
Mix the Cheese Blend
In a large bowl, combine cooked beef mixture with ricotta, egg, 1 cup mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix until fully combined.
Assemble the Dish
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each shell with 1–2 tablespoons of beef mixture and place them in the dish.
Top and Bake
Pour the remaining sauce over the shells, sprinkle with mozzarella, and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top. Serve hot with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips:
🧊 Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
❄️ Freeze assembled but unbaked shells for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips:
🔥 Reheat in the oven at 350°F with a splash of water or sauce.
🥄 Microwave individual portions with a damp paper towel over the plate.

Variations:
🥓 Add crumbled crispy bacon for a smoky twist
🌱 Stir chopped spinach or kale into the filling for extra greens
🍅 Use spicy arrabbiata sauce for a bolder flavor kick

Nutrition Facts

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat
450	15g	50g	22g

Nutrition values are estimates per serving. Adjust based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Can I use gluten-free pasta shells?
✅ Yes! Just follow package instructions and handle gently to avoid tearing.

❓ Why is my cheese sauce grainy or clumpy?
❌ You might’ve skipped fresh cheese or added it at too high a heat. Stir gradually over low heat.

❓ Can I use a different protein?
✅ Absolutely! Ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even plant-based meat work well.

❓ Can I make it ahead of time?
✅ Yes – assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

❓ Is it okay to skip the egg in the filling?
✅ You can skip it, but the filling may be a bit looser. A flax egg is a good vegan substitute.

Conclusion

These Ground Beef Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food — easy, satisfying, and sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you're prepping for a weekday dinner or hosting friends for a casual meal, this dish delivers cheesy, meaty goodness in every bite.

Try it tonight and tag us @Simple Recipes on Pinterest with your creations!