Indulge in the comforting goodness of Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta! This dish features large pasta shells generously filled with a savory mixture of lean ground beef, creamy ricotta cheese, and a blend of flavorful cheeses, all smothered in a rich tomato basil sauce. It’s a perfect meal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, delivering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: With a combination of ground beef and cheeses, this dish is both hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for a family dinner.
- Rich and Creamy: The creamy ricotta and mozzarella create a luscious filling that pairs perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe can be prepared in advance, making it easy to assemble and bake later for a quick weeknight meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients, such as spinach, mushrooms, or different cheeses, to customize the filling to your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: The fun shape of the stuffed shells and the delicious flavors make this dish a hit with children and adults alike!
Ingredients
To make Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 20 large pasta shells: The perfect vessel for stuffing.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Provides protein and heartiness.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: For a gooey and cheesy filling and topping.
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese: Adds a salty, savory flavor to the filling.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binder for the filling.
- 2 ½ cups tomato basil sauce: The flavorful sauce to smother the stuffed shells.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: For added flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh touch when serving.
How to Make this Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Shells
- Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Flavorings: Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- Combine the Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, and the beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Spread Sauce in Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of the tomato basil sauce evenly across the bottom.
- Stuff the Shells: Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese filling. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish, open side up.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining tomato basil sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they are well coated. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the Oven: 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 bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish and Enjoy: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Success Tips
- Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the shells al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked shells can become mushy.
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality ground beef and cheeses will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Add Vegetables: Consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
Storage
To keep your Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen before baking. Assemble the stuffed shells in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: Pair these stuffed shells with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to substitute the cheeses based on your preference; for example, use ricotta and mozzarella for a more classic flavor.
Nutrition
Each serving (based on 8 servings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 25g
(Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.)
FAQs
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef, offering a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a veggie crumble for a delicious vegetarian version.
How Do I Know When It’s Done?
The dish is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the shells are heated through. You can insert a toothpick to check if it’s hot in the center.
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold.
Conclusion
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together savory flavors and creamy textures in a satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or cozy nights in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite of these delightful stuffed shells! ✨