Beef Stuffed Shells Dinner: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Family Nights

Beef Stuffed Shells Dinner is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. As I prepare this recipe, I can’t help but think of the rich history behind stuffed pasta, which has roots in Italian cuisine. This dish not only showcases the versatility of pasta but also highlights the heartiness of beef, making it a favorite among families and friends alike.

What I love most about Beef Stuffed Shells Dinner is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The tender pasta shells cradle a savory beef filling, topped with a luscious marinara sauce and gooey cheese that melts beautifully in the oven. It’s a dish that not only pleases the palate but also offers convenience, as it can be made ahead of time and baked when you’re ready to serve. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, Beef Stuffed Shells Dinner is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Pasta Shells

1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, carefully add the jumbo pasta shells.
2. Cook the shells according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, until they are al dente. You want them firm enough to hold the filling without breaking.
3. Once cooked, drain the shells in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside to cool.

Preparing the Beef Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the beef is browned. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This will help keep the filling from being greasy.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Stir until everything is well combined.
5. Season the mixture with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Assembling the Stuffed Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your stuffed shells cook evenly and get that lovely golden top.
2. Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the shells from sticking and add flavor.
3. Take a cooled pasta shell and carefully spoon a generous amount of the beef filling into each shell. Don’t be shy; you want them to be nicely stuffed!
4. Place the filled shells in the baking dish, open side up, in a single layer. If you have leftover filling, you can spoon it over the shells for extra flavor.
5. Once all the shells are filled and arranged in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Make sure to cover all the shells to keep them moist while baking.
6. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the sauce. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.

Baking the Stuffed Shells

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help the shells steam and cook through without drying out.
2. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
3. After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
4. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This will make it easier to serve and allow the flavors to settle.

Serving the Beef Stuffed Shells

1. Using a large spoon or spatula, carefully serve the stuffed shells onto plates. Be gentle to avoid breaking the shells.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
3. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious beef stuffed shells with family and friends!

Tips and Variations

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey through the world of Beef Stuffed Shells Dinner, I can confidently say that this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to impress family and friends with a comforting and delicious meal. The combination of tender pasta shells filled with savory beef, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese creates a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also offers a wonderful opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. When it comes to serving suggestions, consider pairing your Beef Stuffed Shells with a fresh garden salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal that will leave everyone satisfied. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily switch up the filling by adding sautéed vegetables, different types of cheese, or even swapping the beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version. The possibilities are endless! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Beef Stuffed Shells Dinner a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you stick to the classic recipe, or did you add your own twist? Share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to create even more delicious meals together! Happy cooking! Print