- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for layering)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
For Assembly:
- 12–15 large pasta shells (jumbo shells work best)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
2. Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Ground Beef Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking apart the meat with a wooden spoon, until the beef is browned and crumbled, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and 1/2 cup of marinara sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Optional: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for added creaminess.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with a spoonful of the ground beef mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
- Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra browning (watch closely to avoid burning).
6. Rest and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
- Enjoy every bite of this cheesy, hearty, and indulgent Pasta Shells With Ground Beef!
- Perfect as a standalone main course or paired with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and high-quality ground beef make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Switch Proteins: Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, sausage, or plant-based alternatives for variety.
- Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms into the ground beef mixture for extra nutrition and color.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Pasta Shells With Ground Beef combines the tender texture of jumbo pasta shells, the savory goodness of seasoned ground beef, and the richness of marinara sauce and melted cheese into a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The layers ensure even distribution of flavors, while the cheesy topping adds a delightful contrast. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something hearty and comforting, looking for a way to feed a crowd, or simply want to enjoy a homemade treat, this Pasta Shells With Ground Beef is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make it a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this dish might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨