Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Introduction

Indulge in these creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells, a deliciously comforting dish filled with savory ground beef, creamy cheeses, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these stuffed shells are sure to impress!

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need:

20 large pasta shells, cooked until al dente
1 lb lean ground beef, browned and seasoned
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided: 1 cup for filling, ½ cup for topping)
½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
1 large egg, beaten
2 ½ cups tomato basil sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Cook Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the pasta shells in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Add minced garlic and oregano, cooking until fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Spread 1 cup of tomato basil sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, and place them in the baking dish. Pour the remaining tomato basil sauce over the stuffed shells.

Step 5: Bake

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella over the stuffed shells. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different cheeses like fontina or cheddar for unique flavors.
• Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until hot.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, while large shells are traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.
2. Is it necessary to pre-cook the pasta? Yes, pre-cooking the pasta helps achieve the right texture when baked.
3. Can I freeze the stuffed shells? Absolutely! Assemble the shells and freeze before baking. When ready to cook, bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
4. What can I serve with stuffed shells? A side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.
5. How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta shells and check your sauces for gluten-free labeling.
6. Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
7. How do I know when the stuffed shells are done? They are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden.
8. What kind of ground beef should I use? Lean ground beef is best to avoid excess grease.
9. Can I add vegetables to the filling? Yes! Finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers make great additions.
10. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese? Cottage cheese is a good alternative, but it will change the texture slightly.

Conclusion

Creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells are a delightful, hearty dish perfect for any occasion. With their cheesy filling and rich tomato sauce, they are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade meal!

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