If you're looking for a hearty, comforting meal that brings everyone to the table, stuffed shells with meat and cheese should be at the top of your list. This classic Italian-American dish is a perfect combination of flavorful ground meat, creamy cheese, and tangy tomato sauce, all stuffed into jumbo pasta shells. Whether you’re preparing it for a special family dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead, stuffed shells are a satisfying and crowd-pleasing option. Keep reading for the complete recipe, including step-by-step instructions, variations, tips, and answers to common questions.
What Are Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese?
Stuffed shells with meat and cheese are large pasta shells filled with a mixture of seasoned ground beef or sausage, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and herbs, then baked in a rich marinara sauce. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s popular for both casual dinners and more formal gatherings. The contrast of textures—from the tender pasta to the creamy cheese and savory meat—makes each bite deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients List for Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese
To make the best stuffed shells with meat and cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Jumbo pasta shells – About 20-25 shells for a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage – 1 pound of meat. You can choose either beef or sausage, or a mix of both, depending on your flavor preference.
- Ricotta cheese – 1 ½ cups of smooth, creamy ricotta cheese to form the base of the filling.
- Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups shredded, divided (for both the filling and topping).
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup freshly grated for a nutty, salty kick.
- Egg – 1 large egg to bind the filling ingredients together.
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons finely chopped for added freshness and color.
- Garlic – 2-3 cloves minced, to infuse the dish with aromatic flavor.
- Onion – ½ medium onion, finely chopped to add sweetness to the filling.
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon for sautéing the meat.
- Marinara sauce – 3-4 cups of your favorite marinara or homemade tomato sauce.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
Substitutions and Variations for Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese
This recipe is easily adaptable based on your dietary preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are some common substitutions and variations:
- Ground meat: If you prefer, you can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes for a lighter or vegetarian version. Italian sausage, either sweet or spicy, adds a flavorful twist.
- Cheese: If you want a cheesier dish, feel free to increase the mozzarella or Parmesan. For a different taste, try incorporating provolone or fontina.
- Marinara sauce: You can make your own marinara sauce with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, or use a store-bought jarred sauce to save time. You can also substitute it with Alfredo sauce for a creamier version.
- Spinach: Add some healthy greens to your filling by mixing in cooked spinach or even kale. Simply sauté the spinach first to remove excess moisture, then fold it into the ricotta and meat mixture.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta shells if you have a gluten intolerance. The filling and sauce will remain the same, but you'll have a gluten-free meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese

- Prepare the pasta shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them until they are al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set them aside to cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.
- Cook the meat: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make the cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and chopped parsley. Stir until well blended. Once the meat has cooled, add it to the cheese mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
- Fill the shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Using a spoon or your hands, carefully stuff each cooked shell with the meat and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up.
- Top with sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each one is covered. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over the top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden.
- Let it rest and serve: Once baked, remove the stuffed shells from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.
How to Cook Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Boil pasta shells until al dente.
- Cook ground meat with onion and garlic.
- Mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, and meat together.
- Fill each shell with the meat and cheese mixture.
- Arrange the shells in a baking dish with marinara sauce.
- Top with sauce and more mozzarella.
- Bake at 375°F until bubbly and golden.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta shells: Be sure to cook your shells until just al dente. If they’re too soft, they may tear or become mushy when baked.
- Not draining excess moisture: If your ricotta or meat mixture is too wet, it can lead to a watery dish. Make sure to drain cooked spinach or meat properly before adding it to the filling.
- Under-seasoning the filling: Taste your filling mixture before stuffing the shells. Add enough salt, pepper, and garlic to ensure the flavors pop once baked.
- Overcrowding the dish: Don’t cram too many shells into the baking dish. Leave a bit of space between each shell for even cooking.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving stuffed shells, presentation matters. After all, this is a visually appealing dish, with its cheesy top and vibrant red marinara sauce. Here’s how you can present it beautifully:
- Use fresh herbs: Garnish your stuffed shells with fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve in individual portions: For a dinner party, place 3-4 stuffed shells on each plate and drizzle extra sauce around the edges.
- Use a colorful serving dish: A bright, decorative baking dish can enhance the presentation, making the dish look even more appetizing.
How to Serve Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese
Stuffed shells can be served as a main dish, accompanied by garlic bread or a simple green salad. For a more complete meal, pair them with sides like roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach. They’re perfect for a family-style dinner or special occasions like holidays and potlucks.
Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese
- Layered Serving: Serve the shells in a deep dish, layered with extra sauce, and topped with basil.
- Elegant Plating: Arrange a few shells on each plate with a sprig of fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Cheese Topping: Add an extra layer of mozzarella right before serving for an ooey-gooey cheese pull effect.
Stuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese Recipe Tips
- Make ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate them before baking. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake them as directed.
- Freezing: Stuffed shells freeze well, making them a perfect meal prep option. Assemble the dish, freeze it unbaked, and bake directly from frozen, adding extra time to the baking.
- Extra sauce: Keep some extra marinara sauce on hand to drizzle over the shells when serving, as the pasta may absorb some of the sauce during baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make stuffed shells without ricotta?
Yes! If you don’t like ricotta, you can substitute cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a different texture and flavor.
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Stuffed shells freeze beautifully. Just assemble them, freeze before baking, and cook directly from frozen when you’re ready to eat.
What’s the best type of cheese to use for stuffed shells?
Mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan are classic choices. You can also experiment with other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even goat cheese.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
Stuffed shells with meat and cheese are a versatile and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you make them for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these stuffed shells will become a new family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite!
PrintStuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese Recipe
This stuffed shells with meat and cheese recipe combines flavorful ground beef, ricotta, and mozzarella stuffed into jumbo pasta shells, baked in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a hearty family dinner, this easy-to-make Italian classic delivers a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and rich cheesy goodness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta shells according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then cook until browned.
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg.
- Stir in cooked beef into the cheese mixture.
- Fill each pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture.
- Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in a baking dish. Arrange stuffed shells on top and cover with the remaining sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for beef if desired.
- Add spinach to the cheese mixture for extra nutrients.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 shells
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
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