Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food that combines two classic favorites into one delicious dish. Imagine biting into a jumbo pasta shell filled with a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and just the right amount of tangy toppings—easy to make and hard to resist! Whether you’re facing a busy weeknight or planning a casual get-together with friends, this recipe fits right in. Everyone loves cheeseburgers, and now you can enjoy them in pasta form, making for a fun and inventive twist. So, prepare to gather the ingredients and let’s embark on this cheesy culinary adventure together. We promise these Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation!

Why This Recipe Works

Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells combine the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting, hearty appeal of pasta. By encasing a seasoned beef mixture in jumbo pasta shells, this recipe marries two favorite dishes into one, ensuring a satisfying meal that delights both adults and kids alike.

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells

These Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells are a fun twist on traditional lasagna and a great way to enjoy cheeseburgers in a new form. The combination of melted cheddar cheese, savory ground beef, and tangy toppings makes it irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients for Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells

25-30 jumbo pasta shells, cooked al dente according to package directions
½ teaspoon seasoned salt
1 tablespoon hamburger seasoning
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small yellow onion, diced (divided)
½ teaspoon garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 cups (226 g) cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 Roma tomato, diced (for topping)
⅓ cup dill pickles, diced (for topping)

Preparing the Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Season the Meat Mixture

In a small bowl, combine seasoned salt, hamburger seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Set aside.

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add half of the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened (about 1-2 minutes).

Brown the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Pour in Worcestershire sauce and add the seasoning mixture. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the meat is browned and no pink remains. Remove from heat.

Combine Cheese and Ketchup

Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and 1 tablespoon of ketchup into the beef mixture, ensuring it’s well combined.

Stuff the Shells

Spoon the beef mixture evenly into each cooked jumbo shell and place them in the prepared casserole dish in a single layer.

Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the stuffed shells for a cheesy, baked finish.

Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Add Fresh Toppings

Remove from oven and top with diced pickles, diced Roma tomato, and remaining diced onions if desired. Serve warm.

Serving Suggestions

These Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells are perfect when paired with a side salad or a side of crispy potato fries. They also shine when served with a cooling ranch or creamy dressing for dipping.

Tips for Success

Ensure that pasta shells are not overcooked to maintain their shape and prevent tearing when stuffing.
Customize your seasonings and toppings based on personal preference or dietary needs.
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture.

Variations

For a vegetarian option, replace ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat substitute.
Experiment with different cheese varieties, like pepper jack or mozzarella, for added flavor.
Include vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms in the ground beef mixture for some added nutrition.

Storage Tips

Leftover Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pasta shells instead of jumbo shells?
Yes, although the cooking and stuffing process may differ slightly, small shells can also work with less filling.

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free jumbo shells and check that all seasonings and sauces are gluten-free.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

4. What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or any plant-based ground meat alternative.

5. How do I reheat leftover Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells?
Reheat in the microwave or oven until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.

Cheeseburger Stuffed Shells bring the comfort of a classic cheeseburger into an engaging and savory shell filled with flavorful ground beef and cheese. This dish not only satisfies cravings but also invites creativity with its variations and toppings, making it a favored choice for family dinners and social gatherings alike. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or as leftovers, these stuffed shells are bound to be a hit!