Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will redefine your weeknight dinners! Imagine sinking your fork into tender, oversized pasta shells, each one brimming with a savory, perfectly seasoned beef filling, all smothered in a rich and vibrant tomato sauce. This isn’t just pasta; it’s a comforting hug on a plate, a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone at the table clamoring for seconds.

While the exact origins of stuffed pasta shells are somewhat debated, the concept of filling pasta with delicious ingredients has deep roots in Italian culinary history. From ravioli to tortellini, Italians have long celebrated the art of encasing flavorful fillings within delicate pasta. Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta, as we know it today, is a delightful evolution of this tradition, a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, wholesome ingredients transformed into something truly special.

What is it about this dish that makes it so universally loved? Perhaps it’s the satisfying combination of textures – the slightly chewy pasta, the tender beef, and the smooth, luscious sauce. Or maybe it’s the incredible flavor profile, a harmonious blend of savory meat, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Whatever the reason, Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a hearty and delicious meal. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, especially with my step-by-step guide. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound jumbo pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (25 ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded

Preparing the Pasta Shells:

1. First things first, let’s get those pasta shells cooked! Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Adding salt to the water is crucial – it seasons the pasta from the inside out.
2. Once boiling, add the jumbo shells and cook according to the package directions, but reduce the cooking time by about 2 minutes. We want them to be al dente, meaning they’re still a little firm to the bite. This is important because they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked shells will become mushy and difficult to stuff.
3. While the pasta is cooking, prepare an ice bath. This is simply a large bowl filled with ice and water. As soon as the pasta is done, drain it immediately and plunge it into the ice bath. This stops the cooking process instantly and prevents the shells from sticking together.
4. After a few minutes in the ice bath, drain the shells again and gently lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent them from sticking to each other while you prepare the filling.

Making the Beef Filling:

1. Now, let’s move on to the heart of our stuffed shells – the delicious beef filling! Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Softened onions are key to a flavorful filling.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, making sure to crumble it well. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants greasy stuffed shells!
5. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. These spices add a wonderful Italian flavor to the beef.
6. Pour in about half of the marinara sauce (reserve the rest for later). Stir to combine and simmer for about 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for developing a rich and savory filling.
7. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the beef mixture cool slightly. This will make it easier to handle when you’re stuffing the shells.

Preparing the Ricotta Cheese Mixture:

1. While the beef mixture is cooling, let’s prepare the ricotta cheese mixture. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped fresh parsley.
2. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. The egg acts as a binder, helping the filling hold its shape. The parsley adds a touch of freshness.
3. Season the ricotta mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Remember, seasoning is key to a flavorful dish!

Stuffing the Shells:

1. Now comes the fun part – stuffing the shells! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Take a cooked pasta shell and gently open it up. Using a spoon or a small cookie scoop, fill each shell with a generous amount of the beef mixture. Don’t be shy – we want these shells to be packed with flavor!
3. Place the stuffed shell in a baking dish that has been lightly greased or sprayed with cooking spray. Repeat this process with the remaining shells and beef mixture.
4. Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged in the baking dish, spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring that all the shells are covered.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. This will create a beautiful, bubbly, and cheesy topping.
6. Finally, sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella for an extra layer of flavor and a golden-brown crust.

Baking the Stuffed Shells:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the shells moist and prevent the cheese from burning.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
4. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set slightly and make it easier to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

These beef stuffed shells are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread
• Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans
• A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Tips and Variations:

• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a vegetarian ground beef alternative.
• Add vegetables to the filling: Sauté some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach along with the onions and garlic for added nutrients and flavor.
• Use different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses in the ricotta mixture, such as provolone, fontina, or Asiago.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef filling for a little heat.
• Prepare ahead of time: You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freeze for later: Baked stuffed shells can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting beef stuffed shells! I hope this recipe becomes a family favorite.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta are truly a must-try for anyone looking for a comforting, satisfying, and flavor-packed meal. From the rich, savory beef filling to the perfectly cooked pasta shells and the blanket of melted cheese, every bite is an explosion of deliciousness. I know, I know, I might be a little biased, but trust me on this one – your family and friends will be begging you to make this again and again.

What makes this recipe so special, you ask? It’s the combination of simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and the sheer versatility of the dish. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. For example, if you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add more vegetables to the filling, such as chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.

Speaking of variations, the possibilities are endless! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or use a spicy marinara sauce. If you’re a cheese lover (and who isn’t?), feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan would be absolutely divine. You could even add a layer of ricotta cheese to the bottom of the baking dish for an extra creamy texture.

Now, let’s talk about serving suggestions. These Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta are delicious on their own, but they also pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a classic choice. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is also a great option for soaking up all that delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, you can serve them with roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.

And don’t forget about dessert! A light and refreshing dessert, such as a fruit salad or a scoop of gelato, is the perfect way to end this satisfying meal. Or, if you’re feeling indulgent, you can go for a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu or cannoli.

I’m so confident that you’re going to love this recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even special occasions. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can assemble the shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. This is a huge time-saver, especially during busy weeknights.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, have fun! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so relax, put on some music, and let your creativity flow.

Once you’ve tried this recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments on social media using #BeefStuffedShellsPasta or tag me in your posts. I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy cooking! I hope this Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta becomes a new family favorite for you, just as it has for me. Enjoy!

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