Cheesy Beef & Rice Stuffed Shell Pasta Bake
Ingredients 🍽️
- 250g shell pasta
- 300g ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1½ cups pasta sauce or tomato sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Step-by-Step Recipe 👩🍳
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
➡️ Boil shell pasta in salted water until just tender.
➡️ Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Beef
➡️ Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
➡️ Add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
➡️ Add ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked.
3️⃣ Add Vegetables
➡️ Stir in diced green and red bell peppers.
➡️ Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
4️⃣ Mix the Filling
➡️ Add cooked rice to the beef mixture.
➡️ Pour in pasta sauce.
➡️ Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
➡️ Mix everything well and simmer for 5 minutes.
5️⃣ Combine with Pasta
➡️ Add cooked shell pasta into the skillet.
➡️ Toss gently so the pasta is fully coated with the cheesy beef mixture.
6️⃣ Assemble the Bake
➡️ Transfer everything into a greased baking dish.
➡️ Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
7️⃣ Bake
➡️ Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 15–20 minutes.
➡️ Broil for 2 minutes for a golden cheesy top.
8️⃣ Serve
➡️ Let it cool slightly.
➡️ Scoop and serve warm with garlic bread or salad.
Q & A ❓
Can I use another pasta?
Yes! Penne, macaroni, or rotini work great too.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking.
Can I add more veggies?
Yes! Mushrooms, corn, or spinach taste delicious in this bake.
Nutritional Benefits 🌿
- Protein-rich from beef and cheese
- Bell peppers add vitamins and freshness
- Rice and pasta make it filling and comforting
- Great family dinner option with balanced carbs and protein