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Beef Stuffed Shells

Savory Beef Stuffed Shells: A Family Favorite Delight

Enjoy delicious Beef Stuffed Shells filled with seasoned ground beef and ricotta, smothered in marinara sauce—a cozy and family-friendly dish.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Beef
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shells
  • 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells cook al dente
  • 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
For the Filling
  • 1 pound lean ground beef can substitute with turkey or sausage
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese cottage cheese can be blended for smoothness
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated preferred
  • 1 large egg binder for filling
  • 1 medium yellow onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped, basil can be substituted
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper adjust to taste
For the Topping
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese freshly shredded creates the best texture

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Boil salted water and cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cool water.
  3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, then drain excess fat.
  4. Mix the cooked beef with ricotta, Parmesan, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  5. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish, then stuff each shell with the beef mixture.
  6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden.
  8. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Perfect for make-ahead meals; store in the fridge or freeze for later use.

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