Crockpot Stuffed Shells Recipe

Crockpot Stuffed Shells are the perfect comfort food dinner featuring jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a savory beef filling, slow-cooked in rich marinara sauce, and finished with melted cheese.

This easy family-friendly meal is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, and hearty weekend dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy slow cooker recipe
• Rich and comforting
• Family favorite dinner
• Great for meal prep
• Simple ingredients
• Freezer-friendly
• Loaded with cheesy goodness

Ingredients

For the Shells

• 24 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Cheese Filling

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Sauce

• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook jumbo shells according to package directions until slightly undercooked.

Drain and allow to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet cook:

• Ground beef
• Onion

Cook until browned.

Add garlic and seasonings.

Remove from heat.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese

In a bowl combine:

• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Parsley

Stir until smooth.

Mix in the cooked beef mixture.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Fill each shell with the beef and cheese mixture.

Step 5: Assemble in the Crockpot

Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.

Arrange stuffed shells in a single layer.

Pour remaining sauce over the top.

Step 6: Slow Cook

Cover and cook:

• LOW for 4–5 hours

Step 7: Add Cheese

During the last 20 minutes sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.

Cover until melted.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with:

• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley

Serve warm.

Tips for Success

• Slightly undercook the pasta shells.
• Use freshly shredded mozzarella for best melting.
• Do not overfill the shells.
• Add extra sauce if you prefer a saucier dish.

Storage

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Variations

Sausage Version

Replace ground beef with Italian sausage.

Extra Cheese

Add provolone or Monterey Jack cheese.

Vegetable Option

Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours
• Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 620 per serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble everything the night before and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes. Cottage cheese works well as a substitute.

Do I need to cook the shells first?

Yes. They should be partially cooked before stuffing.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Absolutely. Freeze before or after cooking.

Conclusion

These Crockpot Stuffed Shells are loaded with savory beef, creamy cheese, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella. They’re easy to prepare, perfect for busy families, and guaranteed to become a regular dinner favorite.