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Homemade Spinach and Ground Beef Stuffed Shells photo

Spinach and Ground Beef Stuffed Shells

This Spinach and Ground Beef Stuffed Shells dish is comfort food at its finest! Savory beef and spinach wrapped in tender pasta, topped with gooey cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells (about 20-24 shells)
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups spinach loosely packed
  • 1 teaspoon basil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Skillet for sautéing
  • Baking Dish (9x13 inch)
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spoon or spatula for mixing
  • Aluminum foil for baking

Method
 

  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent. Then add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Add basil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the beef and spinach mixture with half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Stir until evenly incorporated.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Stuff each cooked shell with a generous amount of filling and place seam-side up in a greased baking dish.
  6. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well-coated. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
  7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C).
  • You can freeze the assembled shells before baking; just bake from frozen, adding extra time.