Pesto Ground Beef Shell Pasta Bake

• 12 oz pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup prepared pesto
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
3. 3 In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
4. 4 In a bowl, mix pesto and marinara sauce together.
5. 5 Combine ricotta, egg, garlic, and basil in another bowl.
6. 6 Stuff each pasta shell with a bit of the ricotta mixture.
7. 7 Layer half the shells in a greased baking dish, top with half the sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
8. 8 Repeat layers.
9. 9 Top with breadcrumbs.
10. 10 Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
11. 11 Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Baking dish
• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon for stuffing shells

Variations

• Add cooked chicken or ground turkey for extra protein.
• Swap pesto for sun-dried tomato sauce for a different flavor profile.

Substitutions

• Use spinach and ricotta mixture instead of pesto for a traditional twist.
• Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed potato chips for added crunch.

Pairings

• A glass of crisp white wine complements the pesto flavor.
• Serve with a side of warm Italian bread for dipping.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based alternative.
• Make ahead by assembling the dish and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
• Pair with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

FAQ