A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Tender beef, colorful vegetables, and creamy cheese are stuffed into pasta shells, then baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup water
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the Beef and Vegetables:
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and mushrooms to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Prepare the Shells:
- Cook the pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Assemble the Shells:
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Spoon about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture into each pasta shell. Top with a spoonful of the cheese mixture.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the stuffed shells to a baking dish. Pour any remaining sauce over the shells.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips:
- For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can use any type of pasta shell you like.
- To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the beef mixture and cheese mixture. Assemble the shells and bake when ready to serve.
- For a healthier option, use lean ground beef and low-fat cheese.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a green salad.
Enjoy your delicious and hearty Cheesy Beef and Veggie Stuffed Shells!