Beef Stuffed Shells Recipe with Creamy Ricotta Best Italian Comfort Food

Learn how to make delicious Beef-Stuffed Shells with creamy ricotta filling. A hearty Italian recipe perfect for family dinners! Try it today!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you enjoy Italian cuisine, this dish will quickly become a favorite. The combination of tender pasta shells, rich beef marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta filling creates an irresistible comfort meal. It’s easy to prepare, ideal for meal prep, and great for gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet for cooking beef
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon for stuffing shells
• Baking dish
• Aluminum foil

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Sauce

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
2. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Fill each pasta shell with the ricotta mixture.
3. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish.
4. Spoon the beef and marinara sauce mixture over the shells.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Beef-Stuffed Shells

• Prevent shells from sticking: Rinse them with cold water after boiling.
• Enhance the flavor: Add minced garlic and chopped onions to the beef sauce.
• Extra creamy filling: Mix in a little shredded mozzarella into the ricotta mixture.

Recipe Variations and Additions

• Vegetarian option: Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• More protein: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Assemble the dish and freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave for 2 minutes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 22g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Try cottage cheese instead of ricotta or use a blend of Italian cheeses.

3. What should I serve with beef-stuffed shells? This dish pairs well with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.

Did You Try This Recipe?

Let us know how it turned out! Share your favorite variations and tips in the comments. Enjoy your meal!