Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of savory ground beef and creamy cheeses makes for a delicious filling that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and cooled beef. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, and place them in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to let the cheese brown slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 4 and has a total time of 50 minutes, including 20 minutes of preparation and 30 minutes of cooking.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or a mix of vegetables.
- Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for some heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
10 FAQs
- Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives. - What if I don’t have jumbo shells?
You can use manicotti or any large pasta shape suitable for stuffing. - Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, assemble it a day ahead and bake when ready to serve. - What should I serve with stuffed shells?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish. - How do I know when the dish is done?
The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden when done. - Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
Yes, freeze them before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking. - Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Spinach or bell peppers can be added to the filling for extra nutrition. - What kind of marinara sauce works best?
Any store-bought or homemade marinara sauce will work, depending on your taste preference. - How can I prevent the shells from sticking together?
Toss the cooked shells in a little olive oil after draining to keep them separate. - What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Use an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
Conclusion
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy any appetite. Easy to prepare and customizable, they make for a perfect meal any night of the week. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends!
PrintCreamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Description
Indulge in these Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells, filled with a rich blend of beef and cheeses, all smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella. A comforting dish perfect for family dinners!
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and cooled beef. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, and place them in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to let the cheese brown slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding spinach or herbs to the ricotta mixture!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes