Beef & Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a hearty and delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef and creamy ricotta cheese. This dish not only looks impressive but also tastes amazing, making it a great option for family dinners or special occasions. The jumbo pasta shells are perfect for holding all the tasty filling, and the bubbly cheese on top is simply irresistible.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Beef & Ricotta Stuffed Shells is an excellent choice for a few reasons. First, it’s a filling meal that can satisfy even the hungriest of eaters. Second, this recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require fancy cooking skills, making it accessible for beginners. Lastly, you can prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week.
How to Make Beef & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Ingredients:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your 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, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Fill each pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the dish and cover with the remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Beef & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Serve the Beef & Ricotta Stuffed Shells hot out of the oven with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Pair them with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.
How to Store Beef & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
If you have leftovers, cool the stuffed shells completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Beef & Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta shells; you want them to be al dente so they don’t fall apart when filling them.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If you want a little spice, you can add some red pepper flakes to the filling or marinara sauce.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and use cottage cheese instead of ricotta. Additionally, you can try different types of cheese based on your preference, such as using a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make Beef & Ricotta Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Stuff the shells and place them in the baking dish with marinara sauce. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked or cooked stuffed shells. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
3. What can I serve with Beef & Ricotta Stuffed Shells?
They pair well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
