Looking for the perfect comfort food to serve for dinner? This Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese recipe is a family favorite, combining tender pasta shells filled with a flavorful mix of seasoned ground meat, ricotta cheese, and Italian herbs. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, these stuffed shells are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations to make this classic Italian-inspired dish a hit at your dinner table.
What Are Stuffed Shells?
Stuffed shells, or conchiglioni ripieni, are jumbo pasta shells filled with a savory stuffing—often a combination of cheeses like ricotta and mozzarella, along with spinach or seasoned meat. The shells are baked in marinara sauce and topped with more cheese, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal that's full of flavor.
Ingredients List for Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese
For the Filling:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Shells:
- 20-24 jumbo pasta shells (conchiglioni)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the shells)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Substitutions and Variations
- Meat Options: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives instead of beef or sausage. For a more intense flavor, mix half beef and half Italian sausage.
- Cheese Options: While ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are traditional, you can substitute or add other cheeses like fontina, provolone, or gouda for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and mix in sautéed spinach or finely chopped mushrooms with the ricotta for a vegetarian version of stuffed shells.
- Sauce Variations: While marinara sauce is classic, you can switch it up with a creamy Alfredo sauce or even a pink sauce (a mix of marinara and cream) for a different flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Jumbo Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them 2 minutes less than the package instructions, as they will continue cooking in the oven. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the shells are al dente, drain them and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the meat mixture cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, and parsley.
- Once the meat mixture has cooled slightly, add it to the cheese mixture and stir until everything is evenly combined.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Sauce
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish, spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom.
Step 5: Stuff the Shells
- Using a spoon (or your hands for easier stuffing), fill each jumbo shell with the meat and cheese mixture. Be generous with the filling, but make sure not to overstuff the shells.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish, placing them side by side with the open side facing up.
Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese
- Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure to cover them evenly.
- Sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top for a cheesy finish.
Step 7: Bake the Stuffed Shells
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the shells are heated through.
- Optional: Turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes to get a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor, if desired.
- Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shells: Be careful not to fully cook the pasta shells during the boiling step. Slightly undercook them so they don’t become mushy when baked.
- Overstuffing the Shells: While you want to be generous with the filling, don’t overstuff the shells to the point where they can’t close. This can cause the filling to spill out during baking.
- Skipping the Foil Step: Covering the baking dish with foil for the first part of baking ensures that the shells don’t dry out. Removing the foil at the end helps the cheese get bubbly and golden.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese
Stuffed shells are a hearty, filling dish that can be served as a main course. Pair them with crusty garlic bread, a simple Caesar salad, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. If you want to go all out, serve it with a bottle of red wine, such as Chianti or a medium-bodied Merlot, for a perfect pairing.
Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Shells
- Family-Style: Serve the stuffed shells directly from the baking dish at the table, letting everyone help themselves.
- Individual Portions: Serve 3-4 shells per plate, topped with extra marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan, along with a side salad.
- Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, basil, or even a drizzle of olive oil for a fresh, vibrant finish. A few shavings of Parmesan can also elevate the presentation.
Stuffed Shells Recipe Tips
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time, cover them with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, let the dish come to room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
- Freezer-Friendly: This dish freezes beautifully! Assemble the stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. If baking from frozen, add about 20 minutes to the covered baking time.
- Add Spinach: For a healthier twist, fold a cup of cooked, chopped spinach into the cheese filling. This is a great way to add extra nutrition without compromising on flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, store it covered in the refrigerator, and then bake when you're ready to serve. If you're baking directly from the fridge, allow a few extra minutes of bake time.
2. Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Stuffed shells freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep. Assemble the shells, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
3. Can I make this recipe without meat?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add extra cheese or sautéed spinach. You can also use mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative for a meatless filling.
4. What kind of marinara sauce should I use?
You can use any store-bought or homemade marinara sauce you prefer. If you're looking for extra flavor, try using a roasted garlic or basil-infused marinara.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Conclusion
These Stuffed Shells with Meat and Cheese are a comforting, cheesy delight that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it as a special family dinner or preparing it for a gathering, this classic Italian-inspired dish is a hearty and satisfying option. With flavorful ground meat, rich ricotta, and gooey melted cheese, each bite is a delicious combination of textures and tastes. Try this recipe for your next dinner, and enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
PrintStuffed Shells With Meat And Cheese Recipe
This stuffed shells with meat and cheese recipe combines tender pasta shells filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, ricotta, and mozzarella, all baked in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this comforting Italian classic will be a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Egg
- Marinara sauce
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, sauté diced onion and garlic until softened, then add ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbled. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and the cooked beef mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the meat and cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the beef.
- Add spinach or chopped mushrooms to the filling for extra vegetables.
- Serve with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
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