Cheesy Stuffed Shells Dinner

Cheesy stuffed shells make the coziest family meal and are a staple at my table when I want easy comfort food that always impresses. Creamy ricotta fills each pasta shell and tucks into a rich meat sauce crowned with bubbling mozzarella. I love how simple ingredients turn into something so craveable.

Ingredients

• Jumbo shells: Choose a good-quality brand so the pasta holds up to stuffing
• Ground beef: Pick fresh lean beef for the best flavor and texture
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste and balance the other flavors
• Paprika and Italian seasoning: Adds warmth and complexity Italian seasoning brings familiar herbs like basil oregano and thyme
• Onion: Yellow onions add a little sweetness and depth to the sauce
• Minced garlic: Fresh garlic gives a punchy flavor always worth the extra minute to chop
• Marinara: Go for a jarred sauce you actually like or a homemade batch if you have time
• Ricotta cheese: Whole milk ricotta is creamier and less watery use a brand with minimal ingredients
• Egg: Helps the cheese mixture set and stay creamy
• Dried parsley and garlic powder: Extra layers of herby and savory freshness parsley really lifts the filling
• Parmesan cheese: Nutty and savory buy it in a wedge and grate yourself for best results
• Mozzarella cheese: Choose low moisture whole milk mozzarella for that essential melty top
• Dried parsley: A little sprinkle before serving makes everything pop

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Pasta:

Cook jumbo shells in a large pot of salted boiling water Use plenty of water and stir gently to prevent sticking Drain well and let cool slightly so you can handle them

Brown the Beef and Aromatics:

In a large skillet add ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat Season with salt pepper paprika and Italian seasoning Cook until beef is browned and onions are tender Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks

Simmer with Marinara:

Spoon out any excess grease from the skillet Add minced garlic and cook for one minute until fragrant Pour in the jar of marinara sauce Stir and let the mixture gently simmer on low as you prepare the filling

Mix the Cheese Filling:

In a medium bowl combine ricotta cheese egg Parmesan dried parsley and garlic powder Mix thoroughly until creamy and uniform A sturdy spatula works well here

Stuff the Shells:

Spoon the ricotta filling gently into each shell Aim for one and a half to two spoonfuls per shell Handle the shells carefully so they do not tear

Assemble the Dish:

Nestle the filled shells in a single layer over your meat sauce in a skillet or baking dish Press lightly so they settle into the sauce Sprinkle everything generously with mozzarella

Bake to Perfection:

Place the dish uncovered in a preheated oven at four hundred degrees F Bake for twenty five minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly Cover with foil if you prefer your cheese softer

Serve and Finish:

Take out of the oven let cool for a few minutes and add a final shower of dried parsley Serve hot and enjoy

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Tender pasta creamy filling and savory meat sauce all bake into one dreamy bite I always find myself sneaking extra shells after dinner and it has become my son’s birthday dinner request every single year

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool fully first before storing Pack shells and extra sauce in airtight containers They will keep fresh in the fridge for up to four days For the freezer set the shells in a single layer on a tray freeze solid and then transfer to a bag or airtight container To reheat add a sprinkle of water cover loosely and bake until warmed through

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground beef for turkey chicken or even Italian sausage For a vegetarian twist use sautéed mushrooms and spinach in place of meat Cottage cheese works if you do not have ricotta and you can use any favorite marinara sauce Homemade or your most-loved jar both work

Serving Suggestions

Pair these shells with a crisp green salad and garlic bread It also goes great with roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini For parties serve from a big baking dish so everyone can help themselves

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Cultural Note

Stuffed pasta shells are a classic Italian American comfort food taking cues from traditional Italian manicotti and cannelloni dishes The combo of pasta with cheese and tomato sauce is pure comfort for so many families Mine included

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats for a different twist on the filling.

→ How do I prevent shells from tearing during stuffing?

Allow the cooked pasta shells to cool before handling, and use a small spoon to gently fill them.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the filled shells with sauce in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

→ Can I freeze stuffed shells for later?

Yes, assemble the shells and sauce, then cover tightly and freeze unbaked. Thaw and bake when ready.

→ What cheeses work best in the filling?

Ricotta is classic, but blending in cottage cheese or additional Parmesan and mozzarella adds flavor and texture.

→ How can I make this meal vegetarian?

Omit the ground beef and use marinara alone or add sautéed mushrooms and spinach as the base.