These Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners. Large pasta shells are filled with a delicious mixture of seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, and herbs, then baked to perfection in marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This dish is an Italian-inspired classic that’s sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a meal everyone will love!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Beef-Stuffed Shells
- Instructions for Beef-Stuffed Shells
- Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Beef-Stuffed Shells
- 20-25 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 3 cups marinara sauce
Instructions for Beef-Stuffed Shells
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the shells under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, and cook until the onion is soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix until well combined.
- Add the slightly cooled beef mixture to the ricotta mixture and stir until evenly combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Shells
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 1 cup of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the beef and ricotta mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, then sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the shells cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Notes
- Prevent Shells from Sticking: After cooking the pasta shells, drizzle them with a bit of olive oil to prevent them from sticking together.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use a blend of mozzarella and provolone for an even cheesier dish.
- Marinara Sauce: Use a high-quality or homemade marinara sauce for the best flavor.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Spinach and Beef: Add 1 cup of cooked, chopped spinach to the beef and ricotta mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Spicy Twist: Add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a little heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make beef-stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. When baking, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
3. Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Assemble the stuffed shells, but do not bake them. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
These Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a hearty family dinner. With a rich blend of ricotta, ground beef, and classic Italian herbs, each shell is packed with flavor and baked to perfection. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to be loved by all.
Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this comforting Italian classic!
