Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

The comforting, hearty embrace of Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef is everything you need for an Italian meal idea that makes a busy day melt away. There’s nothing quite like the way Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef envelops all your senses, filling the kitchen with rich, inviting aromas. Alongside the delicious Pasta Shells And Ground Beef Recipes, you’ll discover the warmth of genuine hospitality and family-centered traditions. Let each bite take you back to a world where comfort food reigns supreme and every forkful is a cherished memory.

As I prepare these shells, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s bustling kitchen, where the air hummed with the promise of something extraordinary. Each spoonful of succulent filling, lovingly tucked into pasta shells, brings back vivid childhood memories. I remember the joyous clatter of family gatherings, my grandma’s knowing smile as she guided my small hands to help sprinkle cheese just right. These dishes, like heirlooms, passed down through generations, not only nourish the body but also feed the soul with nostalgia, weaving lasting bonds over shared tables.

If you’re craving something cozy, check out these beautiful spinach and ricotta stuffed shells or this creamy Rotel pasta with ground beef— they pair beautifully with Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef vibes.

Why You’ll Love This Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

• Pasta Shells And Ground Beef Recipes are incredibly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy kitchen gadgets; just simple tools like a bowl and spatula will suffice.
• Flexibility is key with these shells. You can easily swap ground beef for Italian Sausage Stuffed Shells, or go for a leaner option with Ground Turkey or Ground Chicken Stuffed Shells. This versatility makes it perfect for various Italian Meal Ideas.
• This dish is excellent for busy days, family dinners, or when you’re hosting guests. The hearty nature of the Ground Beef Shells Recipes promises satisfaction, while its elegant presentation sets the tone for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Small saucepan
• Spatula
• Knife

Step 1: Preparation for the Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

• • 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Sauce:

• • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Step 2: Cooking the Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and let them cool. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, adding the chopped onions and minced garlic. Once the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft, drain any excess fat. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley. Mix until well incorporated.

Step 3: Assembling and Finishing

Spread one cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each shell with the beef and cheese mixture, arranging them on top of the sauce in the dish. Once all shells are filled, pour the remaining marinara sauce over them, ensuring each shell is generously coated. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Tips for the Best Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Every Time

• Ensure your pasta shells are cooked to just al dente; they’ll continue to cook in the oven while absorbing the sauce’s flavors.
• For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine to the marinara.
• Make sure to cover the dish with foil to avoid the tops of the shells drying out during baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the shells can cause them to split or not hold together well. Fifteen to twenty grams of filling per shell is ideal.
• Be cautious not to overcook the pasta; this can lead to mushy shells that fall apart as you fill them.
• If you’re making the dish in advance, assemble the shells and sauce, then cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Perfect Sides to Serve with Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

• A fresh Caesar salad or Italian chopped salad beautifully complements the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Serve with garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf to soak up every bit of delicious sauce.
• For a lighter side, consider roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus.

Is This Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef Healthy?

Although deliciously indulgent, you can make this recipe more health-friendly by choosing lean ground beef and using part-skim cheeses. Additionally, serving it with a side of vegetables ensures a balanced meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

FAQs

Q: What’s in Italian Stuffed Shells?

Italian Stuffed Shells are a delicious combination of jumbo pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, three types of cheese, and flavorful seasonings. They’re then baked in a rich marinara sauce, making them an outstanding Italian comfort dish.

Q: Is there a difference between Stuffed Shells and Manicotti?

Yes, there is a difference between the two. Stuffed shells typically involve individual pasta shells filled with ingredients, while manicotti uses long, tubular pasta that is stuffed and laid in a dish for baking.

Q: How do you make stuffed shells from scratch?

Making stuffed shells from scratch involves boiling jumbo pasta shells and filling them with a mixture of ground beef, cheeses, and spices. These are then nestled in marinara sauce in a baking dish and topped with more cheese before being baked to perfection.

Q: Can I freeze stuffed shells after baking?

Yes, freezing is a great way to keep your delicious stuffed shells for later. Allow them to cool completely after baking, then cover tightly and freeze. When ready, simply reheat in the oven!

Q: What kind of sauce goes with stuffed shells?

Marinara sauce is a classic pairing for stuffed shells. Its rich tomato flavors complement the cheesy filling perfectly, but you can also opt for a creamy Alfredo or a meat sauce for a different taste experience.

Embrace the Comfort of Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Incorporating this recipe into your repertoire offers a delightful way to experience cherished Italian Meal Ideas. Whether you’re opting for the authentic ground beef mixture or exploring variations like Ground Chicken Stuffed Shells or Italian Sausage Stuffed Shells, each version provides a comforting embrace of flavors. The satisfaction and joy from preparing, sharing, and savoring these Pasta Shells And Ground Beef Recipes offer a culinary journey back to our roots, celebrating the rich tradition of Italian cuisine.

If you’re inspired by this journey into the heart of Italian flavors, don’t miss out on our delightful spinach and ricotta stuffed shells for another taste of Italian comfort.

We hope this recipe brings warmth to your kitchen and joy to your table. We’d love to hear about your experience, so feel free to comment below or save this for later to recreate a heartwarming Italian meal.

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