Ingredients:
**For the Filling:**
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
**For the Sauce:**
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
**For the Pasta:**
– 12 oz (340g) jumbo pasta shells
Instructions:
1. **Cook the Pasta:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. **Prepare the Filling:**
– In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Drain any excess fat.
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
3. **Stuff the Shells:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish.
– Fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish on top of the sauce.
– Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
4. **Bake:**
– Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
– Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. **Serve:**
– Let the stuffed shells cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy your cheesy beef stuffed pasta shells as a delicious and comforting meal!