Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells: A Heartwarming Recipe

Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey with these creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells that promise pure comfort.

Pasta lovers will adore this hearty dish bursting with rich flavors and tender textures.

Melted cheese cascades over perfectly seasoned ground beef nestled inside delicate pasta shells.

Homemade magic happens when simple ingredients combine with culinary passion.

Mediterranean influences shine through each carefully crafted bite of this delightful meal.

Cheese lovers and pasta enthusiasts unite for a dining experience that feels like a warm embrace.

You’ll want to gather your ingredients and create this irresistible recipe right now.

Reasons to Love Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

• Indulge in a deliciously satisfying meal that combines the richness of beef with creamy ricotta in classic stuffed shells.
• Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe brings everyone together with its crowd-pleasing flavors and simple preparation.
• Easily adaptable for different tastes, this dish works wonderfully for casual dinners, potlucks, or weekend family gatherings.
• Requires straightforward ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, making it a hassle-free cooking experience.

Ingredients in Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

• Pasta Shells: Large pasta shells perfect for stuffing with a rich, creamy filling.
• Ground Beef: Flavorful protein that adds heartiness to the stuffed shells.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy cheese that creates a smooth and luxurious texture in the filling.

• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Melty cheeses that provide additional flavor and a golden, bubbly topping.

• Garlic Powder, Oregano, Salt, Pepper: Herbs and spices that enhance the overall flavor of the beef mixture.
• Egg: Helps bind the filling ingredients together and provides structure to the mixture.

• Marinara Sauce: Classic tomato-based sauce that adds moisture and traditional Italian flavor to the dish.

• Fresh Basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic touch to the finished dish.

Instructions for Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 180C (350F).

Get those pasta shells cooking according to the package directions.

Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside, ready for their cheesy adventure.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Grab a skillet and cook the ground beef over medium heat until it turns a beautiful golden brown.

Drain away any extra fat.

Sprinkle in garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to give the beef some serious flavor punch.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Filling

• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Egg

Fold in the seasoned beef and mix until everything is perfectly combined.

The mixture should look rich and tempting.

Step 4: Stuff and Arrange the Shells

Lovingly fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture.

Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of your baking dish.

Nestle the stuffed shells into the sauce, then shower them with the remaining marinara and a blanket of mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbling and the cheese has melted into a golden, irresistible layer.

If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh basil on top for a final flourish.

Tips for Beef Stuffed Shell Success

• Slightly undercook shells by 1-2 minutes to prevent overcooking during baking, ensuring a perfect al dente texture.
• Drain ground beef thoroughly to reduce excess grease and keep the filling light and clean-tasting.
• Combine cheeses at room temperature for smoother blending and more even distribution throughout the filling.
• Spread marinara sauce on the bottom and top of shells to prevent sticking and create a moist, flavorful base.
• Sprinkle extra dried oregano or fresh basil between layers for an aromatic boost and deeper flavor profile.

Storing Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup and maintain texture.
• Wrap individually or place entire dish in freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Seal tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Place individual shells on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.
• Preheat oven to 175C (350F). Place shells in baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes, adding extra marinara sauce if needed to keep moist.

Pairing Options for Stuffed Shells

• Robust Red Wine Match: Choose a medium-bodied Italian Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the rich beef and creamy cheese flavors.
• Fresh Herb Salad Companion: Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the dish's richness and provide a crisp contrast.
• Garlic Bread Sidekick: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up extra marinara sauce and add a delightful crunch to the meal.
• Crisp Vegetable Counterpoint: Prepare roasted zucchini or grilled asparagus spears to balance the hearty pasta with a fresh, green element.

Ricotta Stuffed Shell Variations

• Vegetarian Shells: Replace ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or crumbled plant-based meat alternatives for a protein-packed meatless version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap pasta shells with roasted zucchini boats or large bell pepper halves, keeping the rich cheese and beef filling for a lighter meal.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute ricotta with cashew cheese or tofu-based ricotta, and use dairy-free mozzarella to create a lactose-free version that maintains the creamy texture.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile while maintaining the same cooking method.

• Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

• How can I make this recipe lower in calories?

Opt for lean ground beef, use part-skim ricotta cheese, and reduce the amount of mozzarella on top to create a lighter version of the dish.

• Can I freeze the stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled (uncooked) shells in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe

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4.7 from 16 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Ricotta beef stuffed shells deliver Mediterranean comfort with rich, hearty flavors packed into tender pasta pockets. Melted cheese and savory ground beef create a luxurious dinner you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 250 grams (8.8 ounces) ground beef
• 1 large egg

Cheeses:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta and Sauce:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta shells by boiling in salted water until al dente, then drain and let cool slightly to prevent tearing.
2. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Season with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat and set aside to cool.
3. Create the cheese mixture by whisking ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg until smooth and well-incorporated.
4. Fold the cooled seasoned beef into the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.
6. Carefully fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture, placing them snugly in the prepared baking dish.
7. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring complete coverage.
8. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top for a golden, melted finish.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 180C (350F) for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.
10. Let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven to allow the filling to set.
11. Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving for added aroma and flavor.

Notes

• Adapt the recipe easily for vegetarians by swapping ground beef with plant-based crumbles or roasted lentils for protein-packed alternative.
• Enhance flavor depth by sautéing onions and garlic with ground beef before mixing into ricotta filling for more complex taste profile.
• Control sodium levels by using low-sodium marinara sauce and reducing added salt, making dish more heart-healthy and diet-friendly.
• Prepare shells ahead of time and refrigerate overnight, allowing flavors to meld and creating convenient make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 100mg