Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Jumbo Shells

by

Introduction

This classic, comforting dish is Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Jumbo Shells (also known as Stuffed Pasta Shells with Meat Sauce) – jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta and ground beef mixture, nestled in rich marinara sauce, topped with gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan, and baked to golden perfection. It’s an Italian-American favorite that’s hearty, flavorful, and ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners. This generous recipe serves 8-10 and recreates the bubbly, cheesy casserole beauty in your photo. 3 “Golden, cheesy baked stuffed jumbo shells with meat sauce – just like your photo!” “LARGE” 7 “Million-dollar worthy stuffed shells bubbling with cheese” “LARGE” 8 “Hearty stuffed shells loaded with beef and ricotta” “LARGE” 4 “Classic baked stuffed shells casserole” “LARGE”

History

Stuffed pasta shells originated from Italian “conchiglie ripiene” (stuffed shells), a traditional dish using large shell-shaped pasta filled with ricotta, spinach, or meats, baked in sauce. The jumbo shell version popularized in America during the mid-20th century as Italian immigrants adapted recipes with readily available ingredients. It became a staple in Italian-American cuisine alongside lasagna and manicotti, gaining fame through family recipes and cookbooks in the 1970s-1980s. The addition of ground beef makes it a heartier, more affordable variation perfect for feeding crowds.

Ingredients (Serves 8-10)

For the Filling:

  • 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells (about 40 shells)
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce and Assembly:

  • 2 jars (24-28 oz each) marinara sauce (or homemade)
  • 1 cup beef broth or water (to thin sauce if needed)
  • Extra mozzarella and Parmesan for topping
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions and Methods

Method 1: Preparing the Meat and Filling

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook jumbo shells in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-9 minutes (al dente, as they’ll cook more in the oven). Drain, rinse with cool water, and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion until no pink remains (about 8 minutes). Drain excess fat.
  4. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. In a large bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and the cooled beef mixture until well combined. 6 “Creamy ricotta and beef filling ready for stuffing” “LARGE”

Method 2: Assembling and Baking the Casserole

  1. Spread 1½ cups marinara sauce on the bottom of a large (9×13-inch) baking dish (or two dishes for the amount).
  2. Stuff each cooked shell with about 2 tablespoons of the filling (use a spoon or piping bag for ease).
  3. Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer (open side up) in the baking dish.
  4. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they’re well covered. Add a splash of broth if sauce is thick.
  5. Sprinkle generously with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs. 0 “Beautifully assembled and baked cheesy stuffed shells” “LARGE”

Benefits

This dish offers high protein from beef, ricotta, and cheeses for muscle support and fullness. Calcium and phosphorus from dairy promote bone health, while tomatoes in the sauce provide lycopene (an antioxidant). It’s a balanced comfort food with carbs for energy, though portion control helps with its richness.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 10 servings)

  • Calories: ~450-550
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 25g (mostly from cheese)
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Key nutrients: Excellent source of calcium (~40% DV), vitamin B12, and iron

Note: Values vary; use lean beef or part-skim cheese for lighter options.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Jumbo Shells are the ultimate baked pasta comfort – tender shells bursting with savory filling, smothered in sauce, and crowned with melted cheese. This crowd-pleasing casserole is easy to prep ahead and always impresses.

For the Lovers

Italian food lovers, cheese enthusiasts, and casserole fans adore this dish for its gooey, bubbly top and flavorful, saucy interior. It’s a hug in baked form – perfect for anyone craving hearty, homemade Italian-American classics!

Conclusion (Again)

From prep to that first cheesy bite, this stuffed shells recipe delivers pure satisfaction. Make it once, and it’ll become a family favorite!

For the Lovers (Again)

Pasta lovers and comfort food seekers, this one’s for you – rich, cheesy, and endlessly customizable. Buon appetito! 🧀🍝

Leave a Comment