Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that wraps creamy, cheesy pasta shells in a blanket of robust, flavorful meat sauce, then you are going to adore this recipe for Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce. This dish is the perfect combination of tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich ricotta and mozzarella blend, smothered in a uniquely seasoned beef sauce that brings a wonderful twist with a hint of roasted garlic teriyaki marinade. Each bite bursts with comforting Italian flavors and a slight umami kick that makes it feel both familiar and exciting. It’s a dinner that invites you to slow down, savor every forkful, and maybe even share with loved ones – because meals like this deserve company.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping this recipe straightforward is the secret to its charm. The ingredients are simple yet powerful, each playing a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of richness, texture, and vibrant flavor. From the al dente jumbo shells that hold the filling to the combination of cheeses and the unique savory beef sauce, every component is essential.

• 20 jumbo pasta shells: These large shells are perfect for stuffing and provide a sturdy yet tender base for the cheese filling.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a lovely richness when sautéing the onions and beef, enhancing the depth of flavor.
• ½ cup onion, chopped: Offers sweetness and a subtle crunch that complements the savory meat sauce beautifully.
• 1 pound ground beef: The heart of the savory sauce, giving the dish its meaty, satisfying essence.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Brings aromatic herb notes that lift the entire sauce with familiar Mediterranean flair.
• 2 cups pasta sauce: Provides the classic tang and sweetness essential in any Italian-inspired dish.
• 2 tablespoons Kikkoman® Roasted Garlic Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce: This ingredient adds a surprising umami depth and a subtle roasted garlic punch that elevates the beef sauce.
• 1½ cups ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it creates the perfect smooth texture inside the shells.
• ¾ + ¾ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Mozzarella melts wonderfully, making the filling luscious and the topping irresistibly gooey and golden.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that brightens the cheese mixture.
• 1 large egg: Acts as the binder to keep the filling cohesive and smooth.
• 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped: Offers a fresh, herbaceous note to balance richness.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors present in the filling and sauce.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
• Fresh chopped basil for serving: A garnish that brings a fragrant and colorful finish to the dish.

How to Make Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Start by boiling your jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they’re perfectly al dente. This means they should be tender but maintain a slight bite, which is key to preventing them from becoming mushy when baked. Drain them carefully and set aside to cool so they are easier to handle for stuffing.

Step 2: Prepare the Savory Beef Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to create the perfect sizzling base. Add the chopped onions and sauté just until they soften and begin to turn translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until it’s mostly browned and aromatic. Drain any excess fat for a leaner sauce. Now, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then stir in the pasta sauce alongside the Kikkoman® Roasted Garlic Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce, which gives this sauce its signature savory edge. Let this simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing all those flavors to mingle and create that deeply satisfying beef sauce.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. This mixture will be soft and creamy, full of cheesy goodness and just the right tang. The egg is your secret weapon here to help hold the filling together without compromising its luscious texture.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Take each pasta shell and fill it generously with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy here—those shells are made to hold a good amount of filling! Once stuffed, get your 9×13-inch baking dish ready by spreading about one cup of the beef sauce on the bottom to keep the shells moist and flavorful during baking.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Arrange your stuffed shells neatly in a single layer over the sauce, like little boats anchored in a sea of rich beefiness. Spoon the remaining beef sauce over the top, so the shells are lovingly covered. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded mozzarella on top for that gorgeous bubbly crust. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and broil for another 5 minutes until the cheese melts into an irresistible golden bubbly blanket. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to let all those flavors settle beautifully.

How to Serve Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh chopped basil is the ultimate finishing touch that brings a pop of green color and a fragrant brightness to every bite. Sprinkle generously just before serving for the best sensory experience. A light grating of extra Parmesan can also add an elegant salty crunch on top if you’re feeling extra cheesy.

Side Dishes

This dish shines brilliantly alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness of the stuffed shells. Roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans offer a fresh and healthy accompaniment, creating a well-rounded meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try layering the stuffed shells in individual ramekins for personalized servings that are perfect for special dinner parties. Alternatively, serve family-style directly from the baking dish, encouraging everyone to dig in and enjoy the rustic, hearty vibe of this home-cooked marvel. Garnish plates with basil sprigs or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for a restaurant-worthy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any uneaten stuffed shells with savory beef sauce into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making this dish a wonderful next-day treat or a convenient meal to enjoy during a busy week.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish to enjoy later without losing its charm. For best results, assemble and bake as directed, then let cool completely before wrapping tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Frozen stuffed shells with savory beef sauce will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the shells with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. If you like your cheese bubbly again, remove the foil during the last few minutes of warming to broil lightly. This will bring back the freshly baked feel without drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling?

Absolutely! While ricotta and mozzarella create that classic creamy texture, you can experiment by adding cottage cheese or even cream cheese for extra richness. Just keep the balance so the filling stays smooth and holds together well.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable pasta sauce and follow the same steps for a vegetarian version bursting with flavor.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Definitely. You can assemble the stuffed shells a day ahead, keep them covered in the refrigerator, and bake them right before serving. This makes it an excellent option for meal planning or entertaining.

What type of pasta shells work best?

Jumbo pasta shells are ideal because their large size can hold plenty of filling without breaking. If jumbo shells aren’t available, large conchiglioni pasta are a great alternative.

How spicy is the savory beef sauce?

The sauce in this recipe is mild with no added spicy heat, letting the savory garlic teriyaki marinade stand out. However, you can easily add red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about serving up a warm plate of Stuffed Shells with Savory Beef Sauce. It’s a meal that comforts, delights, and impresses all at once with its delicious layers of cheesy filling and rich, umami-packed sauce. I wholeheartedly recommend giving this recipe a try, whether for a cozy family dinner or to wow your guests with a dish that feels like a hug in pasta form. Once you experience how beautifully all these elements come together, you’ll understand why this has become one of my personal favorites.

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