Beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling are a classic comfort food dish that combines pasta, savory ground beef, rich marinara, and a creamy ricotta blend into a hearty, satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or just an indulgent evening, this dish brings together Italian-inspired flavors and a comforting, cheesy filling. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through creating a meal that is delicious and impressive, yet straightforward enough for any home cook.
Why We Love This Recipe
This beef-stuffed shell recipe combines the best of Italian-inspired comfort foods. The jumbo pasta shells provide the perfect vessel for a creamy, savory beef filling, creating a wonderful combination of textures. The ricotta adds creaminess, mozzarella offers a stretchy melt, and Parmesan gives a touch of umami-rich sharpness. With a hint of Italian seasoning and marinara sauce, each shell is filled with flavor. Plus, the assembly process is fun and offers a chance to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re making dinner for a crowd or looking for leftovers to enjoy the next day, this dish does not disappoint!
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
How to Make Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pasta Shells:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Make sure they’re slightly undercooked to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking. Drain and rinse the shells with cool water, then set aside. - Prepare the Beef Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and cooked through. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then drain any excess fat. Set the beef aside to cool slightly. - Make the Ricotta Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Stir until smooth and creamy. This mixture will give the stuffed shells a creamy texture and help bind the filling together. - Combine the Beef and Ricotta Mixtures:
Once the beef has cooled slightly, combine it with the ricotta mixture. Gently stir until well blended, creating a rich and creamy filling. - Stuff the Pasta Shells:
Spoon the beef and ricotta filling into each cooked pasta shell. Aim to fill each shell generously without overstuffing, as this will help them retain their shape while baking. - Layer the Sauce and Stuffed Shells:
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the bottom to prevent the shells from sticking. Place each stuffed shell in the dish, open side up. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, making sure each one is coated. - Add the Cheese Topping:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan over the marinara sauce-covered shells. This will create a bubbly, cheesy layer on top. - Bake the Shells:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden finish, you can broil the shells for 2-3 minutes before serving. - Serve and Enjoy:
Let the shells cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Success Tips
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: When cooking the jumbo shells, aim for a slightly firm texture (al dente) to ensure they hold up during the baking process.
- Drain Excess Grease: After browning the ground beef, draining the excess grease will prevent the dish from becoming overly greasy.
- Use Quality Marinara Sauce: A good-quality marinara sauce enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Opt for a homemade or store-bought marinara with minimal added sugars or preservatives.
- Blend the Filling Well: Mixing the beef, ricotta, and egg thoroughly will create a smooth, consistent filling that doesn’t separate during baking.
- Don’t Overstuff the Shells: While it’s tempting to fill each shell to the brim, slightly less filling ensures they won’t split or lose shape while baking.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake the shells in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re short on time.
Notes
- Make It Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a meat substitute or additional cheese for a vegetarian option.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrients and flavor, add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling.
- Customize the Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like fontina or asiago for a unique twist on this classic dish.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the filling if you enjoy a little heat.
- Double the Recipe: This dish is perfect for meal prep or freezing. Double the recipe to have extra shells on hand for easy dinners in the future.
Nutrition
Here’s a rough nutritional estimate per serving (based on six servings):
- Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Calcium: 25% of the daily recommended intake
Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and measurements.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used as alternatives to beef. Each variation will bring a slightly different flavor but will work just as well in the recipe.
Q: Do I need to cover the dish while baking?
A: Yes, covering the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes helps to prevent the cheese from over-browning. Removing the foil for the last 10 minutes allows the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
Q: Can I make these shells ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the shells as directed and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked stuffed shells for longer storage.
Q: What should I serve with beef-stuffed shells?
A: Garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or steamed vegetables are excellent accompaniments to this dish. You can also serve with a side of sautéed zucchini or roasted bell peppers.
Q: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
A: Yes, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta. It will provide a similar creamy texture, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Conclusion
Beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling are an easy yet impressive dish that combines hearty ingredients and rich Italian flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or preparing it as a meal for a group, it’s sure to satisfy. The balance of creamy ricotta, savory beef, melty mozzarella, and flavorful marinara sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make again and again. Best of all, it’s customizable and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. So gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and enjoy a comforting plate of stuffed shells—perfect for any occasion!