Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling Recipe

Introduction

There’s something comforting about baked pasta dishes, especially when they’re stuffed with delicious, creamy fillings. This recipe for Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a hit in our household. My family loves the rich flavors and gooey cheese, and it’s a dinner option that feels hearty and satisfying. With a balance of seasoned beef, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese on top, these stuffed shells are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions.

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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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Follow the package instructions to cook the pasta shells until al dente. Drain and allow them to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the beef filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and remove from heat.
3. Prepare the ricotta filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
4. Stuff the shells: Carefully spoon the ricotta mixture into each pasta shell. Arrange the filled shells in a baking dish, open side up.
5. Top with beef and cheese: Spoon the beef mixture over the filled shells. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories

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Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

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How to Serve

• With garlic bread to add a crispy texture and garlicky flavor.
• With a side salad of mixed greens, lightly dressed in a balsamic vinaigrette.
• With steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, for a fresh and light side.
• With a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color and flavor.
• With a glass of red wine like a merlot or cabernet, which pairs well with the rich, savory beef filling.

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Additional Tips

1. Don’t overcook the pasta shells: Cook until just al dente; they’ll soften further in the oven.
2. Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
3. Add extra sauce if needed: If you like saucy pasta, add more marinara over the top before baking.
4. Mix up the cheeses: Try blending ricotta with cottage cheese for a slightly lighter filling.
5. Allow shells to cool slightly before stuffing: This makes it easier to handle the pasta shells without tearing them.

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Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even a medley of finely diced vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
• Cheesy Spinach Ricotta: Add chopped spinach to the ricotta mixture for added greens and flavor.
• Spicy Version: Sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top or mix them into the marinara sauce for extra heat.
• Sausage Substitute: Use ground Italian sausage instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
• Extra Cheesy: Double the mozzarella and Parmesan for an even richer, cheesier dish.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added color and flavor.
• Garnish with extra grated Parmesan on top before serving for an extra cheesy finish.
• Pair with a side of garlic knots or focaccia for a complete meal.
• Add a dash of fresh black pepper or a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who like a bit of heat.

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Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These stuffed shells can be frozen before baking. Assemble the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time.
• Storage: Leftover stuffed shells can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• Reheating Tips: To keep the shells moist, cover them with foil when reheating. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, though the oven gives the best texture.

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FAQ

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Q2: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A2: Absolutely! You can substitute the mozzarella with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.

Q3: Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
A3: Substitute ground turkey for the beef and use part-skim ricotta for a lighter option.

Q4: Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
A4: Yes, homemade marinara works wonderfully and adds a fresh, personal touch to the dish.

Q5: How do I prevent the shells from breaking?
A5: Be gentle when boiling and draining the shells. Cook them until just tender, as they’ll soften more in the oven.

Q6: Can I add vegetables to the stuffing?
A6: Definitely! Spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms all make great additions to the ricotta mixture.

Q7: Can this dish be made gluten-free?
A7: Yes, use gluten-free pasta shells, and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.

Q8: What can I use instead of jumbo pasta shells?
A8: Try using manicotti or cannelloni tubes if jumbo shells aren’t available.

Q9: Do I need to cook the beef first?
A9: Yes, cooking the beef ensures it’s fully done and allows you to drain any excess fat.

Q10: How can I prevent the cheese from burning?
A10: Keep the dish covered with foil for most of the baking time, removing it only for the final 10 minutes.

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Conclusion

Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for satisfying cravings for comfort food. With layers of creamy ricotta, seasoned beef, and gooey melted cheese, these stuffed shells are a favorite for a reason. Plus, the versatility of the recipe means it can be adapted to suit various preferences, whether vegetarian, spicy, or extra cheesy. Simple to make and rich in flavor, this recipe is ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or anytime you want to indulge in a warm, comforting meal. Enjoy!

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