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–+ servings
Beef Stuffed Shells

Hearty Beef Stuffed Shells for Comforting Family Dinners

A delicious beef stuffed shell recipe perfect for family gatherings and cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shells
  • 12 pieces Jumbo Pasta Shells Any large pasta can work.
For the Filling
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Feel free to use ground turkey for a lighter option.
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Substitute with blended cottage cheese if needed.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 large Egg Can be left out for an egg-free option.
  • 1 cup Diced Yellow Onion Shallots work well for a milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Garlic powder is a substitute if fresh isn't available.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Dried herbs can be used as a substitute, use less.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning A mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme can replicate flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste as needed.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste as needed.
For Assembly
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Both store-bought and homemade options are great.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Try a blend of mozzarella and provolone for extra zip.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and cool.
  3. Brown the ground beef with onion and garlic in a skillet for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Combine the cooked beef with ricotta, Parmesan, egg, parsley, seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  5. Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  6. Stuff each shell with the beef filling and arrange in the baking dish.
  7. Pour remaining marinara sauce over stuffed shells and top with mozzarella.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  9. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread to complement the dish.

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