Beef Stuffed Shells: A Comforting Classic for Any Occasion

To make the ultimate beef stuffed shells, you’ll need a combination of high-quality ingredients that enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shells & Filling:

1. Pasta: 20-25 jumbo pasta shells. Choose a high-quality brand for better texture and taste.
2. Beef: 1 pound ground beef (85/15 recommended for flavor and moisture balance).
3. Aromatics: 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced.
4. Seasonings: 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat).
5. Cheese Blend: 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Binder: 1 egg, lightly beaten, to help hold the filling together.
7. Herbs: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for freshness and aroma.

For the Sauce:

1. Tomato Base: 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade, using crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs).
2. Herb Enhancements: 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.

For Topping:

1. Cheese: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for a bubbly, golden top.
2. Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional, but adds freshness and color).

Additional Optional Ingredients:

1. Spinach: 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach (can be mixed into the filling for added nutrition).
2. Mushrooms: 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms (sautéed before adding to the filling for depth of flavor).
3. Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup added to the sauce for a creamy, rich variation.
4. Breadcrumbs: 1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs mixed into the filling for extra texture.

1. Prepare the Pasta Shells

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the instructions. Cook them until they are al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven. Once done, drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Beef Filling

   Over medium heat, cook the ground beef in a large skillet until it is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Mix the Cheese Filling

   Combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, and chopped parsley in a large mixing bowl. Stir in the cooked beef mixture, making sure everything is evenly combined.

4. Prepare the Sauce

   Mix marinara sauce with dried basil, oregano, and garlic powder in a separate bowl. This adds extra flavor to the sauce and complements the filling.

5. Stuff the Shells

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce mixture at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each shell with the beef and cheese mixture, then arrange them in the dish.

6. Add Sauce and Cheese

   Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each one is covered. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.

7. Bake to Perfection

   Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve and Enjoy

   Let the stuffed shells beef cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal!

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, garlic, and high-quality cheese make a big difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shells: When boiling, they should be slightly firm, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
3. Make Ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells a day before and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
4. Freeze for Later: This dish freezes beautifully! Simply prepare the stuffed shells, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen at 375°F, adding 15-20 extra minutes to the baking time.
5. Customize the Filling: Add cooked spinach, mushrooms, or sausage for extra variety.

Variations on Beef Stuffed Shells

While the classic beef and cheese filling is delicious on its own, you can easily switch things up to suit your taste:

1. Cheesy Overload: Mix in more types of cheese like provolone or fontina for a gooey, rich filling.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a fiery twist.
3. Veggie-Packed: Add finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the filling for nutrition.
4. Alfredo Twist: Swap out the marinara sauce for a creamy Alfredo sauce for a decadent change.
5. Mexican-Inspired: Replace Italian seasoning with taco seasoning, use salsa instead of marinara, and top with cheddar cheese for a fun Tex-Mex version.

Pairing Suggestions

To complete your easy beef stuffed shells meal, here are some great sides and accompaniments:

1. Garlic Bread: The perfect side for scooping up extra sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp, fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy shells.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A simple way to add balance to your meal.

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