Ingredients
20 large pasta shells1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef2 cloves garlic, minced1 small onion, finely chopped2 cups ricotta cheese1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)½ cup grated Parmesan cheese1 large egg2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)2 tbsp olive oil1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or oregano + basil mix)½ tsp salt½ tsp black pepperFresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the pasta shellsBoil the shells in salted water until al dente.Drain and drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.Prepare the beef fillingIn a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.Add ground beef, cook until browned.Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.Mix the ricotta fillingIn a bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and a spoonful of the cooked beef mixture.Mix until creamy and well combined.Stuff the shellsFill each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture.Place stuffed shells in a greased baking dish over a layer of marinara sauce.Add the beef & sauceSpoon the remaining beef mixture and marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.BakeCover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.ServeGarnish with fresh parsley.Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh salad.