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Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef


  • Author: ELENE
  • Total Time: 1 hr 5 mins
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Meat-based

Description

Experience a true Italian Meal Idea with our Classic Italian Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef. This authentic recipe pairs succulent ground beef with a trio of cheeses, baked in rich marinara sauce for a comforting embrace of flavors reminiscent of traditional Pasta Shells And Ground Beef Recipes. Perfect for any dinner setting, enjoy a taste of Food Italian cuisine straight from the heart of Italy.


Ingredients

  • 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
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and cool.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef with onions and garlic until beef is no longer pink; drain excess fat. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a bowl, combine beef mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley; mix well.
  4. Spread 1 cup marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each shell with beef mixture and arrange on top of sauce.
  5. Pour remaining marinara sauce over shells, sprinkle with additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Notes

  • Cook pasta shells to al dente to ensure they do not become mushy in the oven.
  • For richer sauce, add a splash of red wine to the marinara.
  • Cover the dish with foil during baking to prevent drying out.
  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 45 mins
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian