Print

Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Pasta

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Cheesy Beef-Stuffed Pasta is a rich and indulgent dish featuring tender pasta shells or tubes filled with a savory beef mixture and baked under a blanket of melty, golden cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions where comfort food is a must.

Ingredients

  • Large pasta shells or cannelloni
  • Ground beef
  • Olive oil
  • Onion, finely chopped
  • Garlic, minced
  • Tomato sauce or marinara sauce
  • Tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
  • Dried oregano
  • Dried basil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Ricotta or cottage cheese (optional, for creamy filling)
  • Mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
  3. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  6. Spoon the beef mixture into each pasta shell. Place filled shells in a baking dish.
  7. Pour extra tomato sauce over the top and sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Vegetable addition: Mix chopped spinach or zucchini into the beef filling.
  • Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the beef mixture.
  • Cheese swap: Use provolone, fontina, or a blend for different flavor profiles.
  • Creamier filling: Mix ricotta or cottage cheese with the beef for a richer filling.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave portions. Freezes well for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastyera.com/cheesy-beef-stuffed-pasta/