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Slow Cooker Stuffed Shells with Beef Sauce

A comforting dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta and topped with a savory beef marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the pasta
  • 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells
For the filling
  • 1 pound ground beef (halal)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Half used for filling, half for topping.
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until fully incorporated.
  3. Take a spoonful of the ricotta mixture and stuff each pasta shell generously. Place the stuffed shells in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  4. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat, then pour in the marinara sauce. Stir well until the beef is evenly coated in the sauce.
  5. Pour the beef and marinara mixture over the stuffed shells in the slow cooker.
  6. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low for 4 hours or high for about 2 hours.
  7. When there are about 30 minutes left, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top and let it melt.
  8. Once done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Substitutions: Use cooked turkey or chicken instead of beef. Swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter filling. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.