Name: Classic Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Ingredients: For the Pasta:; 12 oz jumbo pasta shells (about 24 shells); For the Red Sauce:; ½ lb lean ground beef; ½ lb ground sausage (such as Jimmy Dean’s); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 onion, finely chopped; 16 oz tomato sauce; 6 oz tomato paste; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained; ½ cup water; 2–3 teaspoons Italian seasoning, to taste; For the Cheese Filling:; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; ⅔ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Make classic stuffed shells with ricotta cheese, ground beef, and Italian sausage baked in a rich tomato sauce. This easy stuffed pasta recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or freezing for later.

These hearty stuffed shells feature tender pasta filled with creamy ricotta and a flavorful meat sauce made with beef, sausage, and Italian herbs. Baked until bubbly and golden, this comforting Italian-style dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

12 oz jumbo pasta shells (about 24 shells)

For the Red Sauce:

½ lb lean ground beef
½ lb ground sausage (such as Jimmy Dean’s)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
16 oz tomato sauce
6 oz tomato paste
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
½ cup water
2–3 teaspoons Italian seasoning, to taste

For the Cheese Filling:

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 large egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
⅔ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta Shells:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and arrange them on a baking sheet to cool—this prevents sticking.

2. Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and sausage together until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
(Optional: Pulse the cooked meat a few times in a food processor for a finer texture.)
Season with salt and pepper. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and soft.
Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, water, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, egg, 1 cup mozzarella, and ⅓ cup Parmesan. Stir until smooth and well blended.

4. Assemble the Dish:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread 1 cup of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Stuff each cooked pasta shell with a spoonful of the ricotta filling followed by a spoonful of the meat mixture. Arrange the filled shells face up in the baking dish.
Spoon the remaining sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and ⅓ cup Parmesan.

5. Bake:
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Tips

Cook a few extra shells in case some tear during boiling.
To prevent watery sauce, simmer until thickened before assembling.
For smoother cheese filling, beat the ricotta and egg together before adding shredded cheese.
Make ahead: Assemble up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

Meatless Version: Skip the beef and sausage, and add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the filling.
Cheese Lovers: Add provolone or fontina for extra creaminess.
Spicy Touch: Use hot Italian sausage or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Vegetable Boost: Mix chopped zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach into the sauce.

FAQs

Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes. Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F for 45–55 minutes.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Absolutely. Drain it well for a thicker consistency before mixing.

How long do leftovers last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach.
Add a glass of red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon for an Italian-style meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These stuffed shells are rich, cheesy, and full of comforting Italian flavor. The combination of creamy ricotta filling, savory meat sauce, and perfectly baked pasta makes it a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s easy to prepare ahead and perfect for any occasion.