These Cheesy Beef Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ground beef, creamy ricotta cheese, and tangy marinara sauce, all nestled in tender pasta shells. The golden, gooey mozzarella topping seals the deal, making each bite irresistibly delicious. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a special occasion, these stuffed shells bring the best of Italian-inspired flavors to your table, and the best part—they’re gluten-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love these Cheesy Beef Stuffed Shells. First, they’re the perfect combination of flavors: savory beef, rich cheese, and a bright marinara sauce. Second, the recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or simply craving a comforting, cheesy dish, these stuffed shells deliver. They’re also easy to make, yet look impressive enough to serve at dinner parties. If you’re someone who loves classic Italian comfort food with a twist, these stuffed shells will quickly become a go-to recipe.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pasta:

• 12 large pasta shells (gluten-free)

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce & Toppings:

• 2 cups marinara sauce

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.

2. Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gluten-free pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Beef Filling: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat, then transfer the beef to a large mixing bowl. Add ricotta cheese, Parmesan, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until the filling is smooth and well-combined.

4. Stuff the Shells: Carefully fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Don’t be afraid to pack them generously!

5. Assemble the Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in a single layer on top, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.

6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

7. Serve: Let the stuffed shells rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or cooked lentils for a hearty, plant-based version.

• Other Proteins: Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can replace the beef for a variation in flavor.

• Cheese: Swap in different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique twist.

• Sauce Variations: Try using pesto or a white sauce instead of marinara for a creamy, herbaceous touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: These stuffed shells freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, cook directly from frozen, adding an extra 15 minutes to the baking time.

• Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven, covered with foil at 350°F, until heated through. For individual portions, the microwave works well—just cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.

FAQs

1. Do I need to use gluten-free pasta shells, or can I use regular ones?

For a gluten-free version, be sure to use certified gluten-free pasta shells. Regular pasta works fine for those who are not gluten-sensitive.

2. Can I swap the ground beef for another protein?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils can be used instead of beef depending on your preference or dietary needs.

3. Can I prepare the dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead. Cover them tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.

4. How do I keep the pasta from tearing while stuffing?

Let the pasta shells cool slightly after cooking and handle them gently. Using a small spoon or a piping bag helps make the stuffing process easier and more neat.

5. What marinara sauce works best?

Choose a robust marinara sauce that you love. You can also make your own sauce at home to add a personal touch.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?

Definitely! Swap ricotta for cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different texture and flavor.

7. Can I freeze the stuffed shells before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed shells. Once they’re assembled, cover and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding 15 minutes to the cook time.

8. What side dishes go well with cheesy beef stuffed shells?

A crisp green salad, sautéed vegetables, or gluten-free garlic bread are all great choices to serve alongside this dish.

9. How can I make the dish spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef filling or marinara sauce for a spicy kick.

10. Can I make a smaller batch of this recipe?

Yes, simply halve the ingredients and bake in a smaller dish. The cooking time may be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on the cheese as it bakes.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Beef Stuffed Shells are a delightful and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich flavors, hearty filling, and gooey cheese topping, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this gluten-free dish will bring the warmth and comfort of homemade Italian-inspired cooking straight to your home. Happy cooking!