Ingredients
1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1 egg
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cook the Pasta Shells:
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Boil jumbo shells in salted water until al dente according to package directions.
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Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
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Prepare the Beef Filling:
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In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned.
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Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Drain excess grease and let mixture cool slightly.
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Mix the Cheese Filling:
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In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and the cooled beef mixture. Mix well.
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Stuff the Shells:
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Spread a layer of marinara sauce (about 1 cup) on the bottom of the baking dish.
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Fill each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture and place in the dish, open side up.
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Add Sauce and Cheese:
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Spoon remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
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Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese.
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Bake:
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Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
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Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted.
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Serve:
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Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.
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Serve hot with garlic bread or a green salad.
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