Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

If you’re craving something comforting, hearty, and full of flavor, Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is about to become your new go-to dish. Picture this: large pasta shells stuffed to the brim with a savory, perfectly seasoned beef and ricotta filling, all smothered in a rich, creamy marinara sauce. Every bite is an explosion of warm, cheesy goodness with just the right amount of meatiness to make your taste buds dance. This dish is cozy enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to serve at a dinner party. Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to be requested again and again!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Cozy Comfort Food

This dish is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, creamy, and savory. It’s like a warm hug on a plate that will have you coming back for more, no matter the occasion.

Make-Ahead Friendly

You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge or even freeze it for later. Perfect for those busy nights when you need a comforting meal without all the last-minute prep.

Customizable

Feel free to get creative with the filling or sauce! Add some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take.

Family-Friendly

This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—whether you’re feeding kids or adults, everyone will love these cheesy, meaty stuffed shells.

Ingredients in Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this indulgent dish:

• Jumbo pasta shells: These are the perfect size to hold all the delicious stuffing inside.
• Ground beef: The hearty filling base, perfectly seasoned to provide richness and flavor.
• Ricotta cheese: The creamy, cheesy base of the stuffing that gives the shells their delicious texture.
• Mozzarella cheese: For that melty, gooey goodness that makes every bite irresistible.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty depth of flavor that perfectly complements the ricotta.
• Egg: Helps bind the ricotta and beef filling together and gives it structure.
• Garlic: A must-have to add fragrance and depth to the filling.
• Onion: A subtle sweetness that balances the savory beef and creamy ricotta.
• Tomato sauce: The rich, tangy sauce that ties everything together.
• Herbs and spices: Dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to season the beef and ricotta filling.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (1 stuffed shell):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 580mg
• Potassium: 350mg
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 12% DV

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Start by cooking the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, making sure they’re al dente. Once they’re done, drain and set aside to cool slightly so you can handle them.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling

While the shells are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano to taste.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Stir in a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the beef mixture is done, let it cool slightly, then add it to the ricotta mixture and combine thoroughly. You want to make sure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Stuff the Shells

Take each cooked pasta shell and carefully stuff it with the beef and ricotta filling. Be generous with the filling, but be mindful not to overstuff them.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the shells, making sure each shell is covered with sauce. Sprinkle extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top for added cheesiness.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. Top with a sprinkle of fresh basil or extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy this cheesy, hearty masterpiece!

How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

With Garlic Bread

Pair this cheesy, hearty dish with warm, buttery garlic bread to sop up all the delicious sauce. It’s the perfect complement to your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

Serve the stuffed shells with a light, crisp salad to balance out the richness of the dish. A simple side salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette will do wonders.

With Roasted Vegetables

Add a side of roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or even a medley of root vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead

You can prepare this dish in advance! Just stuff the shells and assemble the dish, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

Freezer Friendly

This dish freezes beautifully! After assembling and before baking, cover the dish tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the same baking instructions.

Try a Lighter Version

For a lighter version, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use part-skim ricotta and reduced-fat mozzarella to reduce the calorie count.

Add Extra Veggies

Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding spinach, mushrooms, or even zucchini to the beef mixture. You won’t even miss the extra meat!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A1: Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s chilled.

Q2: Can I freeze this dish?
A2: Absolutely! Assemble the stuffed shells, cover them tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw overnight and bake as directed.

Q3: What can I use if I don’t have jumbo pasta shells?
A3: If you don’t have jumbo shells, you can use manicotti tubes or even regular pasta like rigatoni, though the filling will be a bit more difficult to stuff.

Q4: Can I substitute the ground beef?
A4: Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian version.

Q5: How long will leftovers last?
A5: Leftovers will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Q6: Can I add extra cheese?
A6: Absolutely! Feel free to load on extra mozzarella or even cheddar cheese on top for a cheesier, more indulgent dish.

Q7: Can I use homemade tomato sauce?
A7: Yes! Homemade tomato sauce will add even more flavor and depth to the dish. Just make sure it’s seasoned well to complement the stuffing.

Q8: How do I make the stuffing more flavorful?
A8: You can add chopped herbs like basil or parsley to the ricotta filling, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Q9: Can I make this gluten-free?
A9: Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta shells to make this dish gluten-free.

Q10: What side dishes go well with this?
A10: A side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables would be perfect to round out this meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the perfect dish when you need something comforting, cheesy, and full of flavor. With tender pasta shells stuffed with a delicious beef and ricotta filling, covered in rich marinara sauce, and baked to golden perfection, this dish is sure to impress anyone at the table. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. So go ahead, grab those shells, and get ready for a plateful of cheesy, meaty goodness!

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