- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until combined.
- Stuff the Pasta Shells:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture, then place them in the baking dish, open side up.
- Add Sauce and Cheese:
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are evenly covered.
- Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top for a delicious cheesy finish.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Success
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the dish up to the baking step in advance. Just cover it with foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the beef filling for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spice it Up: For a kick of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells: Mix cooked spinach with ricotta and cheese for a vegetarian version.
- Creamy Alfredo Version: Substitute marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich and decadent twist.
- Tex-Mex Style: Add taco seasoning to the beef mixture and top with salsa and cheddar cheese for a flavorful Tex-Mex flair.
Conclusion
Pasta shells with ground beef is a classic comfort food that combines delicious flavors with satisfying textures. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Whether you’re serving a family meal or hosting friends, these stuffed pasta shells are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this delightful dish, and watch as it quickly becomes a staple in your home cooking repertoire!
