A Comfort Food Classic
Picture this: tender pasta shells stuffed with a rich mixture of savory beef, creamy ricotta, and fragrant herbs, all nestled in a bed of marinara sauce and smothered with melted cheese. That’s the magic of Beef and Ricotta Stuffed Shells. This dish is a symphony of Italian-inspired flavors, perfect for family dinners or impressing dinner guests.
The best part? This recipe is surprisingly simple to make, even if it looks like a gourmet masterpiece. It’s a great way to bring everyone to the table, filling the room with the irresistible aroma of baked pasta and cheese. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe delivers every time.
With its hearty filling, rich sauce, and cheesy goodness, this dish is bound to become a household favorite. Plus, it’s perfect for making ahead or freezing, making your life that much easier.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family Favorite: A comforting dish that pleases both kids and adults.
- Easy to Make Ahead: Ideal for meal prep or freezing for busy days.
- Packed with Flavor: From the herby beef filling to the cheesy topping, every bite is delicious.
A Family Favorite Story
The first time I made these stuffed shells, my husband couldn’t stop raving about how “restaurant-quality” they tasted. Even the kids—usually picky eaters—cleaned their plates and asked for seconds. It’s now our go-to dish for birthdays, potlucks, and cozy nights at home. And the best part? The leftovers taste even better the next day.
Why These Beef and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Are a Must-Try
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Savory beef, creamy ricotta, and a tangy marinara sauce.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for family gatherings or casual dinner parties.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the recipe with your favorite cheeses or herbs.
Cuisine: Italian
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the shells as they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil adds a burst of flavor and color.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Substitutions and Variations
- Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage or turkey for a twist.
- Cheese Variety: Swap mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use lean ground beef or turkey.
- Opt for low-fat ricotta and mozzarella.
- Swap traditional pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free shells.
Categories: Dinner, Comfort Food, Italian-Inspired
Tags: Pasta recipes, stuffed shells, family dinner ideas
FAQs About Beef and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Assemble the stuffed shells, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding extra time as needed. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for smaller portions. - Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade marinara adds a fresh, personal touch to this dish. - How do I prevent the shells from sticking together?
Toss the cooked shells with a bit of olive oil after draining to keep them separate.
And there you have it! A comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Don’t forget to share your experience with this recipe and explore more of our delicious creations!
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Beef and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Description
Picture this: tender pasta shells stuffed with a rich mixture of savory beef, creamy ricotta, and fragrant herbs, all nestled in a bed of marinara sauce and smothered with melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta shells until al dente, following package instructions.
- Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Fill each pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture and place them in the baking dish.
- Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
- Serve warm with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
