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Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe


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4.7 from 16 reviews

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

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.


Ingredients

Scale

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)

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