Beef Stuffed Shells
Cheesy beef stuffed shells are baked to perfection, featuring tender pasta, savory meat filling, and melty cheeses, ideal for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. #43 shells ⓘ
- 2 medium onions, chopped ⓘ
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped ⓘ
- 1 small can chopped mushrooms ⓘ
- 1 1/2 lb. cooked beef, chopped ⓘ
- 1 beaten egg ⓘ
- 1 cup soft bread crumbs ⓘ
- 3/4 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
- 3/4 cup shredded Swiss cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. oregano ⓘ
- 1 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. pepper ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the shells in boiling water for 12 minutes, then drain and rinse.
- Sauté chopped onions, garlic, and chopped mushrooms in oil until tender.
- Mix in cooked chopped beef, beaten egg, bread crumbs, shredded Mozzarella and Swiss cheeses, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the cooked shells with the meat mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed shells in a large deep baking pan covered with 3 to 4 cups of spaghetti or tomato sauce.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Baste with sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground beef seasoned with Italian herbs. You can also swap the cheeses for your favorites, like ricotta or provolone, for a different taste. If you prefer a lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken. Adding some fresh spinach or kale to the filling can boost nutrition and add color to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these beef stuffed shells with a fresh side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a nice touch. They pair beautifully with Spaghetti Sauce With Meat, which can be drizzled over the shells for added flavor. Consider a glass of red wine to enhance the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the stuffed shells in a baking dish with a little extra sauce, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Stuffed Shells contains roughly 1046 calories, with 33g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (102% of the Daily Value), calcium (84% of the Daily Value), and protein (66% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1298mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Assemble them, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef. For a vegetarian option, consider using a mix of sautéed vegetables or a meat substitute like lentils or tofu, seasoned well to add flavor.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Freeze the assembled stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time to ensure they are heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).