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Beef Stuffed Shells

Heavenly Beef Stuffed Shells: Comfort Food Made Easy

Indulge in these Beef Stuffed Shells, a comforting dish filled with seasoned beef and creamy cheese, perfect for dinner or gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 shells
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 shells Jumbo Pasta Shells Cannelloni can be used as a substitute.
For the Filling
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef Can be substituted with ground turkey.
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese can be an alternative.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use freshly grated for best results.
  • 1 large Egg Optional for an egg-free version.
  • 1 medium Diced Yellow Onion Any onion variety can be used.
  • 3 cloves Minced Garlic Dried garlic powder can be substituted.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Basil can be used instead.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning A homemade mix works if you're short.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
For the Sauce and Topping
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Blending with provolone adds flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil and add the jumbo pasta shells. Cook until al dente, about 9-12 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  3. In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion until translucent, then add ground beef and minced garlic. Cook until beef is browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the beef mixture with ricotta, Parmesan, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  5. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  6. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef mixture and place them seam side up in the baking dish.
  7. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden brown.
  9. Let the dish stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1shellCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For make-ahead meals, assemble without baking and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Adjust baking time as necessary.

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