Ground Beef Stuffed Jumbo Pasta Recipe
This Ground Beef Stuffed Jumbo Pasta is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender pasta shells, savory ground beef filling, and rich tomato sauce makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
For the stuffed pasta:
- 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells (about 24 shells)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the sauce:
- 3 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente (follow package instructions).
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef Filling
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a saucepan, heat marinara sauce with basil and a pinch of sugar (if using). Let it simmer for a few minutes to develop the flavor.
Step 4: Stuff the Pasta Shells
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Using a spoon, carefully fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells into the baking dish, seam side up.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the shells, ensuring they are evenly covered.
Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping
- Sprinkle the shells with additional shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake the Dish
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta shells; they’ll continue to cook while baking.
- For added flavor, try mixing cooked Italian sausage with the ground beef.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Stuffed Jumbo Pasta is a comforting and versatile dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or serving a crowd, it’s a meal that always delivers big on flavor.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Stuffed Jumbo Pasta recipe is a true comfort food classic, combining the richness of ground beef, the creaminess of cheese, and the heartiness of pasta in one delicious dish. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion—from cozy weeknight dinners to gatherings with family and friends.
With its flavorful filling and cheesy topping, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it with a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this timeless dish!