There’s something incredibly comforting about cheesy, garlicky stuffed pasta shells. I’ve been making these Cheesy Garlic Beef Stuffed Shells for family dinners for years, and they’ve never disappointed. The combination of savory beef, gooey melted cheese, and rich garlic sauce all wrapped up in pasta shells is irresistible. It's one of those dishes that feels like a big warm hug after a long day. Whether you're serving it for a casual weeknight meal or a special family gathering, this recipe is always a hit!
Why It’s Great
Cheesy Garlic Beef Stuffed Shells are great because they combine rich flavors with a satisfying texture. The shells are filled with a savory beef and garlic mixture, blended with ricotta and mozzarella cheese, then baked to perfection in marinara sauce. This dish is hearty, comforting, and filled with delicious ingredients that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it's a versatile recipe that can be easily prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for busy nights or meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and the egg. Add the cooked beef mixture and stir until well combined.
- Stuff the shells: Spoon the beef and cheese filling into each cooked pasta shell, placing them seam-side up in the prepared baking dish.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve these stuffed shells with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. They’re perfect for family dinners or even special occasions like a cozy date night.
- Storage: Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze the shells before baking for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Helpful Notes
- Cheese options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like provolone, fontina, or a mix of Italian cheeses for a richer flavor.
- Make ahead: You can prepare this dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the shells in the baking dish, cover with foil, and bake the next day.
- Customize the filling: Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the beef mixture for a healthy twist. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini for a vegetarian version.
2. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought marinara works perfectly in this recipe. Just choose a brand with a flavor you love.
3. Can I freeze the stuffed shells before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
5. Can I use other types of pasta?
Jumbo pasta shells work best for stuffing, but you can use manicotti or cannelloni as substitutes if needed.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Garlic Beef Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food, packed with flavor and perfect for a hearty dinner. With their rich, cheesy filling and garlicky beef, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're feeding a crowd or simply looking for a cozy meal, this dish delivers every time. Make a batch for dinner and watch everyone come back for seconds!
