Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender pasta shells with a savory beef and ricotta filling, topped with marinara and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

1 box jumbo pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 egg
2 cups marinara sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions and drain.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, seasoning it with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess fat after cooking.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooked beef, egg, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until well blended.
4. Carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta beef mixture.
5. Pour half of the marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce, then cover with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people. The prep time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes, making the total time around 45 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a meatless version.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for some heat.
• Different Cheeses: Try using different cheeses, such as cottage cheese or feta, for unique flavors.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave until warm.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat?
   Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.
2. What if I don’t have jumbo shells?
   You can use a different pasta shape, like manicotti or even cannelloni.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the stuffed shells and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
   Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze before baking. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
5. What kind of marinara sauce should I use?
   You can use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce, depending on your preference.
6. How do I prevent the pasta shells from sticking together?
   After cooking, rinse the shells under cold water and lightly coat them with olive oil to prevent sticking.
7. What can I serve with stuffed shells?
   A side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.
8. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
   Yes, finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can be mixed into the filling.
9. Is it necessary to cover the dish while baking?
   Covering the dish helps retain moisture, but you can bake uncovered for a crispy top if preferred.
10. How do I know when the stuffed shells are done?
    The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the dish should be heated through.

Conclusion

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a satisfying and flavorful dish that brings comfort to any meal. With its hearty filling and cheesy topping, it’s an easy recipe to make for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures in every bite!

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