Ultimate Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells: A Flavor-Packed Delight 🧀

Introduction

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this sumptuous recipe for Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells, curated exclusively for the Love With Recipes platform. This dish combines the hearty richness of seasoned ground beef with the melty, gooey goodness of cheese, all wrapped within tender, jumbo pasta shells. The addition of aromatic garlic, fresh parsley, and a robust wine-infused tomato sauce elevates this meal from simple to extraordinary, making it perfect for both cozy weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. Its versatility, satisfying nature, and irresistible flavor profile will quickly make it a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, this recipe offers detailed guidance to ensure a delicious and impressive outcome every time.

Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Colander or strainer
• Spoon or small cookie scoop for stuffing
• Oblong baking dish or casserole dish (preferably glass or ceramic)
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering during baking)
• Oven mitts and utensils for handling hot dishes
• Grater for cheese

Tags

Comfort Food, Italian Cuisine, Pasta, Beef, Cheese, Baked Dishes, Weeknight Dinner, Family Favorite, Easy Recipes, Oven-Baked

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 6 generous servings, making it suitable for family dinners or small gatherings. Each serving provides a hearty portion of stuffed pasta shells with ample cheese and savory sauce.

Difficulty Level

Moderate — suitable for home cooks with basic kitchen skills. The process involves multiple steps, including cooking pasta, preparing filling, making sauce, and baking, but each step is straightforward and manageable with attention to detail.

Allergen Information

Note: Always check labels for processed ingredients to verify allergen presence.

Dietary Preference

Contains meat and dairy; not suitable for vegetarian, vegan, or dairy-free diets without modifications.

Course

Main Course / Entrée

Cuisine

European, Italian-inspired comfort food

Ingredients

Ingredient List in Detail

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Shells

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous amount of salt—about 1-2 tablespoons—to season the water. Once boiling, carefully add the jumbo pasta shells. Stir gently to prevent sticking and cook according to the package instructions—usually 12-14 minutes—until al dente, meaning they are tender but still hold their shape. To prevent shells from sticking together, stir occasionally during cooking.

While the pasta cooks, prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with ice and cold water. When the shells are done, drain them in a colander and immediately transfer them to the ice bath. This stops the cooking process and helps prevent over-softening. Let the shells sit in the ice bath for about 2-3 minutes, then drain thoroughly and set aside on a clean towel or plate.

Careful handling of the shells during this step is important to avoid tearing or cracking, which could compromise the stuffing process later.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften and become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can develop a bitter taste.

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook the beef until browned evenly—about 8-10 minutes—and ensure that no pink remains. Drain excess fat if necessary, but leave enough to keep the mixture moist and flavorful.

Deglaze the pan with the Burgundy wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds depth of flavor to the mixture. Let the wine simmer and reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and transfer the beef mixture to a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

To the cooled beef mixture, add the shredded mozzarella cheese, finely chopped parsley, and the egg. The egg acts as a binder, helping the filling hold together during baking. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate if not using immediately. This chilling step can help firm up the filling for easier stuffing.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce with the dry red wine and Burgundy wine. Stir well to create a flavorful, wine-infused sauce that will enhance the richness of the dish. The wines add a subtle complexity and depth, balancing the savory beef and cheesy filling. Keep this mixture ready for assembly.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Spread a thin layer of the wine-infused sauce—about ¼ of the total—on the bottom of the dish. This creates a flavorful base that keeps the shells moist while baking.

Taking each cooked pasta shell, carefully spoon or scoop the beef mixture into the cavity, filling it generously. Use a small spoon or a piping bag for neater, more precise stuffing. Place each stuffed shell seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, arranging them side by side in a single layer.

Once all shells are filled and arranged, spoon the remaining sauce evenly over the top, ensuring each shell is coated with the flavorful mixture. Finish by sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese over the entire dish for an extra cheesy crust that will brown beautifully during baking.

Step 6: Baking

Place the assembled dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden-brown on top. The shells should be heated through, and the sauce should be thickened slightly, creating a luscious coating.

For a crustier top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the dish to set slightly for easier portioning.

Preparation Tips

• For perfectly cooked shells, avoid over-boiling; aim for al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.
• Use high-quality tomato sauce for a richer flavor; homemade sauce is ideal if you have time.
• If you prefer a milder taste, reduce or omit the wine in the sauce, or substitute with chicken broth or beef broth.
• Chilling the filling before stuffing helps it firm up, making it easier to fill the shells neatly.
• To prevent shells from bursting, handle them gently, and avoid overstuffing.
• For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle additional herbs like basil or oregano before baking.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For a more flavorful filling, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a more intense cheesy flavor; pre-grated cheese may contain anti-caking agents that affect melting quality.
• Leftover filling can be frozen and used for future stuffed shells or other pasta dishes.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked spinach, mushrooms, or lentils, and use plant-based cheese alternatives.
• To add a crunch, sprinkle some bread crumbs or crushed garlic croutons on top before baking.

Add-ons

• Red pepper flakes for heat
• Fresh basil or oregano for added freshness
• Extra shredded cheese (cheddar, provolone) for a richer topping
• Olives or roasted red peppers for additional flavor

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread or crusty baguette
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus
• Caesar salad with homemade dressing

Improvements

• Incorporate a béchamel or Alfredo sauce for a creamier, more decadent version.
• Stuff the shells with a mixture of cheeses, such as ricotta, to enhance the creamy texture.
• Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions inside the shells for additional complexity.
• Use homemade pasta for an elevated experience, though store-bought shells are perfectly fine for convenience.

Save and Store

Refrigeration

Allow the baked shells to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through, or microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.

Freezing

For longer storage, assemble and bake the dish, then cool thoroughly. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as described above.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the shells, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake directly from the refrigerator, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cold.

Can I substitute the wine in the sauce?

Absolutely. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with additional tomato sauce or beef broth. The wine adds depth but is not essential.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Yes. Replace the ground beef with cooked vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms, and use vegetarian cheese options.

What type of pasta shells should I use?

Large, jumbo pasta shells are ideal for stuffing. Ensure they are cooked al dente to prevent tearing during handling.

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells is a timeless dish that combines the richness of seasoned ground beef with the comforting embrace of melted cheese and savory sauce. The process, while involving multiple steps, results in a dish that is both visually appealing and incredibly flavorful—perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. This recipe exemplifies how simple ingredients, when thoughtfully combined and prepared, can create a culinary masterpiece that delights the senses. For the best results, follow the detailed steps, utilize quality ingredients, and don’t hesitate to make modifications to suit your preferences. Remember, cooking is an art, and this dish provides a fantastic canvas to experiment and personalize.

References

• “Classic Italian Pasta Recipes,” The Italian Food Lover’s Guide, 2020.
• “Wine Pairing and Cooking,” Wine Enthusiast Magazine, 2021.

Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful dish! Remember, all recipes shared here are meticulously tested and approved for quality and flavor, brought to you by Love With Recipes, your trusted partner in culinary inspiration.