This delightful stuffed shells recipe is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor! Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it combines a savory beef filling with a rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
1 lb ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
For the Pasta:
1 package (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta Shells:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
Drain and rinse the shells under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
2. Make the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
3. Prepare the Sauce: