Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Name: Jumbo Stuffed Shells With Meat
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20–24 jumbo pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 cups marinara sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

These jumbo stuffed shells are the perfect combination of tender pasta, savory meat, creamy cheese, and tangy marinara. It’s a great make-ahead meal, freezer-friendly, and ideal for feeding a family. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in, this dish delivers all the best parts of a traditional lasagna without the layering fuss.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Jumbo pasta shells
Ground beef or Italian sausage
Ricotta cheese
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese, grated
Egg
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Marinara sauce
Olive oil
Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley, chopped
Salt
Black pepper

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, cooked meat mixture, and chopped parsley. Mix well until fully incorporated.
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Fill each shell with the meat and cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish seam-side up.
Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with extra parsley if desired and let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Cheese lovers: Add cream cheese or mascarpone to the filling for an even creamier texture.
Vegetable mix: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini with the meat for added nutrients.
Spicy version: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
White sauce option: Swap marinara with a béchamel or Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free jumbo shells or large gluten-free pasta shapes if available.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover and microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, or reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes until heated through.
To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

FAQs

Can I make stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

What’s the best meat to use for stuffed shells?

Ground beef, Italian sausage, or a combination of both work great. You can also use ground turkey or chicken.

Do I need to cook the shells before stuffing?

Yes, cook the pasta shells until just al dente. This ensures they’re tender enough to stuff but won’t fall apart.

Can I freeze cooked stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Let them cool, then store in airtight containers or freezer-safe dishes.

How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?

After boiling, toss the shells gently with a bit of olive oil and spread them out on a tray to cool without sticking.

What cheese can I substitute for ricotta?

Cottage cheese or a mixture of mascarpone and mozzarella can be used if you don’t have ricotta.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely. Choose your favorite store-bought brand or make your own homemade sauce.

How do I know when the dish is done baking?

The sauce should be bubbling, and the cheese on top should be melted and slightly golden.

Can I add more vegetables to the filling?

Yes, chopped spinach, mushrooms, or even bell peppers can be added to the meat and cheese mixture.

What sides go well with stuffed shells?

Garlic bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables are all excellent side choices.

Conclusion

Jumbo stuffed shells with meat are a classic comfort food dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. This recipe is simple, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or special family dinners. Whether you make it fresh or freeze it for later, it’s a meal everyone will look forward to.