These Beef-Stuffed Shells are a perfect combination of savory ground beef, creamy ricotta filling, and melted cheese, all baked in marinara sauce for a comforting, cheesy meal. Ideal for a family dinner or a weekend treat, this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
12 jumbo pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven & Cook the Pasta:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to the package directions, then drain and set them aside to cool. - Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, then remove from heat. - Prepare the Ricotta Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined. - Assemble the Shells:
Stuff each cooked pasta shell with a generous amount of ricotta filling. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish. Top each shell with the beef and marinara mixture. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top. - Bake:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden. - Serve:
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, hearty Beef-Stuffed Shells!
Tips and Variations:
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a bit of heat.
Add Veggies: You can sneak in some finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms into the ricotta filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken.
Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda for added flavor.
How to Store:
Store any leftover Beef-Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven, covered with foil, at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
FAQs:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Assemble the dish and freeze before baking. To bake from frozen, cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Can I use a different sauce?
While marinara is the traditional choice, you can use any tomato-based pasta sauce, or even a white sauce for a creamy twist.
What can I serve with Beef-Stuffed Shells?
Serve with a side of garlic bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
This Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling recipe is an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of cheesy goodness and rich, flavorful beef, it’s sure to become a family favorite!