Description
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Marinara and Mozzarella
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
For the Topping:
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Pasta:
20-25 jumbo pasta shells
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Boil the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, but cook them just until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Dish:
In a baking dish, spread 1 1/2 cups of marinara sauce on the bottom. Spoon the beef mixture into each cooked pasta shell, filling them generously.
Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish in a single layer, arranging them over the marinara sauce.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
Bake:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
These stuffed shells are rich, cheesy, and full of savory beef flavor. Perfect for a comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy!
