Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce Recipe
If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug from the inside, you absolutely must try these Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce. This dish brings together tender jumbo pasta shells loaded with a luscious blend of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, all nestled under a rich, flavorful beef sauce with a delightful twist of roasted garlic teriyaki. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly sweet notes that will have you going back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce starts with a handful of simple ingredients that work harmoniously to create layers of incredible flavor and texture. From silky cheeses to a robust, well-seasoned beef sauce, each element plays a vital role in making this dish irresistibly satisfying.
- 20 jumbo pasta shells: These large shells are perfect for stuffing and hold all the delicious filling without breaking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and beef, adding a subtle richness.
- ½ cup onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and aromatic base for the beef sauce.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that makes the sauce savory and filling.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that elevates the beef sauce’s flavor.
- 2 cups pasta sauce: Classic tomato sauce that gives the dish a familiar and comforting taste.
- 2 tablespoons Kikkoman® Roasted Garlic Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce: Adds a unique depth and a touch of subtle sweetness to the beef sauce.
- 1½ cups ricotta cheese: Brings creaminess and a mild tang to the filling.
- ¾ + ¾ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Mozzarella melts beautifully, providing gooey texture both inside and on top.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty kick to the cheese mixture.
- 1 large egg: Binds the cheese filling together, helping it maintain structure when baked.
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped: Fresh herbaceous flavor that brightens the filling.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- Fresh chopped basil for serving: A fragrant, fresh finish that complements the hearty dish perfectly.
How to Make Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Shells
Start by cooking your jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until just al dente. This ensures they’re tender enough to bite through yet firm enough to hold the filling without falling apart. Drain carefully and lay them out to cool slightly, which also makes them easier to handle when stuffing.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté for a couple of minutes until they start to soften and release their sweet aroma. Next, add the ground beef and cook it, breaking up the meat with a spoon until it’s mostly browned through. Drain off any excess fat to keep the sauce rich but not greasy. Season the beef with Italian seasoning and then stir in the pasta sauce along with the Kikkoman® Roasted Garlic Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce. This step is key as the teriyaki adds an unexpected but wonderful depth and subtle sweetness to the savory beef base. Let it all simmer gently for five minutes so those flavors meld beautifully.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling
While your beef sauce simmers, combine the ricotta, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mixture should be smooth, creamy, and well-seasoned—it’s what makes those shells irresistibly luscious from the inside out.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells and Layer the Dish
Carefully fill each pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture, making sure not to overstuff to avoid breaking. Spoon about 1 cup of the beef sauce into the bottom of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish and arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over this sauce base. Then, ladle the remaining beef sauce evenly over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese. This layering creates a beautiful contrast of textures with creamy cheese envelopes nestled in savory sauce and topped with bubbling melted cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes to allow the flavors to come together and the filling to set. Then, remove the foil and broil the shells for an extra 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling enticingly. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving to let everything settle and make it easier to plate.
How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce
Garnishes
For a fresh burst of flavor and color, sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the top just before serving. The fragrant basil cuts through the richness, balancing each bite beautifully. You can also add a little extra grated Parmesan for those who love an extra cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted seasonal vegetables adds refreshing texture and balance. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also works perfectly to scoop up any extra beef sauce, completing the meal with satisfying crunch and warmth.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve the Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce in individual mini casserole dishes, garnished with the fresh herbs and perhaps a drizzle of good olive oil. Alternatively, arrange a single stuffed shell on each plate alongside a small salad and a decorative parmesan crisp for a refined, restaurant-quality feel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your feast, transfer any uneaten stuffed shells to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days, maintaining their tender and flavorful qualities.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping. Place the fully assembled and baked shells in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power in short bursts to retain moisture and prevent drying out. If frozen, allow to thaw before reheating for even heating and preserved texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for the sauce?
Absolutely! While ground beef gives a classic, hearty taste, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage. Each option will bring its own character to the Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce while keeping the dish deliciously satisfying.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. Combine the sauce with extra herbs and a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance depth. The cheese filling remains just as flavorful, ensuring a delightful vegetarian version.
Can I prepare the stuffed shells in advance?
You can assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for busy days or entertaining when you want to save time while still serving a homemade meal.
What cheese can I use if I don’t have ricotta?
Cottage cheese is a decent substitute when ricotta is unavailable; just blend it slightly for a smoother texture. Alternatively, mascarpone adds richness, but keep in mind it’s creamier and sweeter, which can subtly shift the flavor profile.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the onions or stir in a dash of hot sauce to the beef sauce. This is a simple way to customize the Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce to your preferred spice level without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend these Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce enough—they bring together the best of hearty, cheesy comfort and a sauce that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s bound to become a beloved staple in your home. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into the joy of creating this deliciously satisfying meal. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Delicious jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheese mixture, baked in a savory beef and teriyaki-infused tomato sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella and fresh basil. This hearty and comforting dish combines Italian flavors with a hint of Asian-inspired teriyaki for a unique twist.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
Beef Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup onion, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups pasta sauce
- 2 tablespoons Kikkoman® Roasted Garlic Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce
Cheese Filling
- 1½ cups ricotta cheese
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh chopped basil for serving
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells: Boil water and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly to make handling easier.
- Prepare the beef sauce: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until mostly browned. Drain excess fat, then season the beef with Italian seasoning. Stir in the pasta sauce and Kikkoman Roasted Garlic Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Make the cheese filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, the egg, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Stuff the shells: Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the cheese mixture, ensuring they are generously filled but not overstuffed.
- Assemble in baking dish: Spread 1 cup of the beef sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Spoon the remaining beef sauce evenly over the shells. Sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for a golden cheesy finish.
- Bake the dish: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and broil the dish for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Serve: Allow the stuffed shells to rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving to add a fragrant, fresh herbal note.
Notes
- Cook pasta shells just until al dente to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef to avoid greasy sauce.
- Using fresh herbs like basil at the end brightens the dish.
- If Kikkoman Roasted Garlic Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce is unavailable, substitute with a mix of soy sauce and a touch of garlic powder for similar flavor.
- Covering with foil helps keep the shells moist while baking.
- Broiling at the end adds a crispy, golden cheese topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Boiling, Sautéing, Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: stuffed shells, baked pasta, beef sauce, ricotta cheese, savory pasta bake, Italian comfort food, teriyaki pasta sauce
