Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe

Thank you for stopping by! If you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting pasta dish, you’ve come to the right place. Today, I’m excited to share with you a recipe for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta that is as satisfying as it is delicious. Juicy ground beef mixed with a rich blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all stuffed into perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells, topped with marinara sauce, and baked to bubbly perfection—it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be a go-to dish for family dinners or special gatherings.

If you’re a fan of easy, flavorful Italian-style meals, this recipe is for you. Plus, it’s totally customizable! But we’ll get into that in a bit. For now, let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish, and then I’ll walk you through the ingredients and steps to make it at home.

Why You’ll Love These Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

1. Rich and Creamy: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy filling that perfectly complements the hearty beef.
2. Family-Friendly: This dish is ideal for family dinners—everyone will love it!
3. Make-Ahead Meal: You can prepare this ahead of time and simply pop it into the oven when ready, making it perfect for busy nights.
4. Customizable: You can tweak the recipe by adding veggies, swapping out the beef for sausage, or even using a different type of cheese. It’s super versatile!

this Recipe

The Taste

Picture this: tender pasta shells filled with a savory, creamy beef mixture, topped with a tangy marinara sauce, and finished with melted mozzarella. Each bite is a perfect blend of rich flavors and textures. The shells soak up the sauce, while the beef and cheese filling brings an irresistible creaminess. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of freshness, and you’re in for a treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, here’s a quick look at everything you’ll need to make this comforting dish:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells – These are the foundation of your stuffed shells. Be sure to cook them al dente so they hold their shape.
• 1 pound ground beef – Adds richness and savory flavor to the filling.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – For that creamy, slightly tangy base.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Half goes into the filling, the other half tops the shells for gooey goodness.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds nuttiness and depth to the filling.
• 1 egg – Helps bind the cheese filling together.
• 2 cups marinara sauce – The zesty, tomato base that brings it all together.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a delicious aroma and flavor kick.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried basil – Classic Italian herbs that bring out the flavor in the beef and sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season the filling just right.
• Fresh parsley – For garnish and a pop of color.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling the pasta
• Large skillet for browning the beef
• Mixing bowl for the cheese filling
• 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling and baking the shells
• Aluminum foil to cover while baking

How to Make Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Now, let’s get cooking!

1. Cook the Pasta Shells

• Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook your jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente—soft but still firm to the bite.
• Drain and set them aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Beef Filling

• In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through.
• Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Mix the Cheese Filling

• In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and the egg. Stir until everything is well combined.
• Add the cooled beef mixture to the cheese filling and stir until the beef is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

4. Stuff the Shells

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of your 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Carefully stuff each shell with the beef and cheese mixture, placing each shell in the baking dish in a single layer.

5. Add Sauce and Cheese

• Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they are well covered.
• Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top of the shells for that melty, golden finish.

6. Bake

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

7. Garnish and Serve

• Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

This dish is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with some sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Garlic bread: The perfect way to mop up that extra marinara sauce.
• A simple green salad: A fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the shells.
• Steamed vegetables: Light, steamed broccoli or asparagus adds a healthy touch to your meal.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells

• Make ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells up to 24 hours ahead of time and keep them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready!
• Freezing option: These stuffed shells freeze beautifully. Prepare them as directed, but before baking, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.
• Variations: Want to switch it up? Try using ground Italian sausage instead of beef, or even add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the shells in the microwave or oven until warmed through. They make for excellent next-day lunches!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage would all work well as substitutes.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes! You can easily swap the beef for a plant-based alternative or load the filling with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta shells from sticking together?
A: Be sure to stir the shells gently while they cook and drain them promptly. You can also toss them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Conclusion

There you have it! A simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious recipe for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Don’t forget to share your thoughts and pictures with me on Pinterest or leave a review below—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fat: 25g

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