Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a warm and comforting dish that everyone loves. It’s the perfect meal for family gatherings, cozy weekends, or anytime you want to impress friends with a delicious homemade pasta dish. This meal combines hearty beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella inside tender pasta shells, all smothered in marinara sauce. What’s not to love?
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser! It’s not just easy to make, but it also brings together a wonderful mix of flavors and textures. The savory ground beef paired with the creamy ricotta filling makes each bite satisfying. Plus, it can be prepared ahead of time, making it great for busy weeknights. This dish is perfect for both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will be happy!
How to Make Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the jumbo shells in salted boiling water until they are just al dente. Drain them and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it is browned. Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and the cooled beef mixture.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the filling you just made.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells, then sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, uncover the dish and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if you like, and serve warm.
How to Serve Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
These beef-stuffed shells are best served warm right out of the oven. You can enjoy them as a main dish, paired with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. They also make a great option for meal prepping, as you can save leftovers for lunch the next day!
How to Store Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just make sure to cover them well and they can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, but add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Tips to Make Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta shells; they should be slightly undercooked so they don’t break when stuffing.
- For added flavor, try using spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
- Experiment with different cheeses or add spinach to the filling for extra nutrients and color.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables to the beef mixture, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for more flavor and texture. Another variation is to use a different type of sauce, like Alfredo or pesto, if you want to switch things up!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to bake or freeze it for later.
3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables or lentils for a delicious vegetarian option.
Enjoy making and sharing this scrumptious Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling! It’s a dish that brings joy to every table.
