Easy Stuffed Shells With Meat
Introduction
If you are craving a comforting and satisfying dinner, then stuffed shells with meat might just be the perfect answer. This classic Italian-American dish brings together tender pasta shells, a rich and savory meat filling, creamy cheese, and flavorful marinara sauce baked until bubbly and golden. It is a simple dish with big flavors, ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even a make-ahead meal for busy days.
Stuffed shells are one of those meals that look fancy and feel special, but they are surprisingly easy to prepare. Once you get the basic steps down, it becomes a go-to recipe in your kitchen. The combination of ground beef, ricotta cheese, and herbs creates a filling that is comforting and full of flavor. Topping it with mozzarella and marinara sauce adds the perfect cheesy and saucy finish.
One of the best things about this dish is how flexible it is. You can adjust it to suit your taste, make it vegetarian, add extra veggies, or spice it up. It also freezes well, making it a smart option for meal prepping. Whether you are feeding a crowd or just your family, stuffed shells with meat is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table.
Now, let’s break down what you will need and how to bring this delicious meal to life in your kitchen.
Ingredients Needed

To make this dish, you only need a handful of ingredients. Most of these items are easy to find and might already be in your pantry or fridge. This recipe makes about four hearty servings and can be doubled if you are cooking for more people or want leftovers.
Here is a full list of ingredients you will need, along with an easy-to-read calorie breakdown to help you stay on track if you are watching your intake.
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count
Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
---|---|---|
Jumbo pasta shells | 20 shells (about 6 oz) | 210 |
Ground beef (85% lean) | 1 pound | 800 |
Ricotta cheese | 1 cup | 430 |
Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup | 320 |
Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup | 215 |
Egg | 1 large | 70 |
Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
Marinara sauce | 2 cups | 240 |
Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon | 5 |
Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
Total Estimated Calories Per Serving: Around 610 calories (based on 4 servings)
Read More: Ziti Bake That’s Perfect for Family Dinners
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it is hot and ready by the time your shells are assembled and prepared for baking.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them until they are al dente. This usually takes around 9 to 10 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, or they may tear when you try to stuff them. Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the ground beef. Cook it thoroughly until browned, which should take about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain the excess fat and let the meat cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well blended. This will be your creamy and flavorful filling.
Take each pasta shell and fill it with about one to two tablespoons of the meat and cheese mixture. Arrange the filled shells in a greased 9 by 13-inch baking dish. Spread one cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish before placing the shells to prevent sticking.
Once all the shells are in the dish, spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese and a little more Parmesan if desired. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
Read More: Hearty and Savory Pasta Beef Recipes for Every Occasion
Tips for Customizing the Recipe

This stuffed shells recipe is very flexible and can be easily tailored to suit your preferences. If you want to switch things up or make the dish a little healthier, try some of these ideas.
Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. Italian sausage also works great if you want more spice and depth of flavor. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat entirely and add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or sautéed zucchini to the cheese mixture.
If you like a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce. You can also add fresh basil or chopped parsley to the filling for a burst of freshness.
Want it extra cheesy? Add a bit of provolone or fontina to the mix for even more gooey deliciousness. The beauty of this recipe is that once you master the base, you can experiment with your favorite ingredients.
Nutritional Information

Here is an estimate of the nutrition per serving, based on the ingredients used in the original recipe. This is for one-fourth of the dish, which is a generous and satisfying portion.
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 610 |
Protein | 35 grams |
Carbohydrates | 38 grams |
Fat | 33 grams |
Saturated Fat | 15 grams |
Fiber | 3 grams |
Sugar | 6 grams |
Sodium | 750 milligrams |
Keep in mind these numbers are estimates and can vary depending on the specific products and quantities you use.
Serving Suggestions

Stuffed shells are a hearty and satisfying main course, but they pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the rich and cheesy shells. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce left on your plate.
For drinks, you cannot go wrong with a glass of red wine. Chianti, Merlot, or Pinot Noir all pair nicely with the bold flavors of the dish. If you are keeping it alcohol-free, sparkling water with lemon or a light iced tea makes a refreshing match.
Garnish the dish with fresh basil or parsley just before serving for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
Read More: Quick and Easy Cheese Steak Tortellini Recipe
Conclusion
Easy stuffed shells with meat is a delicious and comforting recipe that brings the warmth of home-cooked Italian food to your kitchen. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and lots of room for customization, it is a dish you will find yourself coming back to over and over.
Whether you are cooking for a busy weeknight or planning a cozy dinner for loved ones, this recipe delivers flavor, satisfaction, and that homemade touch we all crave. Plus, it is freezer-friendly and great for leftovers, so you can enjoy the rewards with minimal effort later on.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a rich, cheesy, and meaty dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household.