Creamy Ricotta Mince Stuffed Shell Pasta

Let me tell you, if you’re in the mood for comfort food with a little extra flair, Creamy Ricotta Mince Stuffed Shell Pasta is exactly what you need! This dish is like a warm, cheesy hug for your taste buds, with tender pasta shells filled with a rich mixture of creamy ricotta and savory minced meat, all smothered in a decadent sauce. Trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds (and possibly thirds). The combination of textures—perfectly cooked pasta, a creamy ricotta filling, and a savory meat sauce—is truly something special. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just want to treat yourself to something indulgent, this dish will become an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Ricotta Mince Stuffed Shell Pasta

Rich & Creamy

The ricotta mixture adds a velvety creaminess that perfectly balances the savory flavors of the minced meat. Plus, the luscious sauce ties everything together beautifully for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Flavorful Filling

The mixture of seasoned ground meat and ricotta cheese brings a delicious, hearty filling that’s packed with flavor. It’s the kind of bite that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish is great for making ahead of time. You can prep the stuffed shells and sauce earlier in the day, then bake it when you’re ready to eat. It’s the perfect hassle-free dinner!

Easy to Customize

You can easily make this dish your own! Swap in ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option. Add some spinach, mushrooms, or even a few spices to tweak the flavor profile to your liking.

Family-Friendly

Pasta is always a crowd-pleaser, and the creamy ricotta filling is a total hit with kids and adults alike. This recipe will definitely become a go-to in your meal rotation.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your Creamy Ricotta Mince Stuffed Shell Pasta:

For the Stuffed Shells:

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are perfect for stuffing and hold the filling beautifully.
• Ground Beef: The star of the filling, providing that savory richness. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative.
• Ricotta Cheese: The creamy base of the filling that adds richness and texture.
• Egg: To bind the ricotta mixture together.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds that wonderful savory aroma and flavor.
• Spinach (Optional): A handful of fresh spinach can be added to the ricotta mixture for a bit of color and a veggie boost.
• Mozzarella Cheese: For extra melty, gooey goodness inside the stuffed shells.

For the Sauce:

• Tomato Sauce: Use a good-quality marinara or tomato sauce for the base of the dish.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the garlic and meat.
• Onion: A little onion adds depth to the sauce.
• Herbs: Dried oregano, basil, and thyme give the sauce that classic Italian flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course!

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 8g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 750mg
• Potassium: 650mg
• Calcium: 30% DV
• Iron: 20% DV
• Vitamin A: 15% DV
• Vitamin C: 20% DV

This dish is packed with protein and flavor, and with the creamy ricotta and lean meat, it’s a perfect balance of indulgence and satisfaction.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Instructions

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started on making these deliciously stuffed shells!

Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until they’re al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.

Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once it’s cooked through, add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onions are soft and the garlic becomes fragrant, about 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Ricotta Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, mozzarella cheese, and spinach (if using). Stir in the cooked meat mixture and add a pinch of salt, pepper, and a little dried oregano for flavor. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Shells

Spoon the ricotta and meat mixture into each cooked pasta shell, carefully packing the filling inside. Set each stuffed shell aside on a plate or tray.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, heat a bit more olive oil and add your tomato sauce. Stir in dried oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Assemble the Dish

Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in the dish. Once all the shells are in, pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top, making sure each shell is covered with sauce.

Bake the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle a little extra mozzarella cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. Spoon the shells onto plates and top with fresh basil or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Mince Stuffed Shell Pasta

With a Side Salad

Pair this dish with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the stuffed shells.

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with a side of crispy, buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the rich tomato sauce!

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or a medley of root veggies are a great side to add extra nutrition and color to your meal.

Extra Cheese

For the cheese lovers, top your stuffed shells with a generous sprinkle of parmesan or pecorino before serving for that extra bit of cheesy goodness.

Additional Tips

Make Ahead

This dish is great for prepping in advance! You can assemble the stuffed shells and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven.

Vegetarian Option

To make this a vegetarian dish, simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein like lentils or sautéed mushrooms. The ricotta filling will still be creamy and satisfying!

Freezing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can freeze them for later! After baking, let the shells cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Add Spice

If you like a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce or the ricotta filling for a spicy kick.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: While jumbo shells are perfect for stuffing, you can use other large pasta shapes like manicotti or even rigatoni. Just make sure the pasta is large enough to hold the filling.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a great option for meal prep.

Q3: Can I freeze this recipe?
A3: Absolutely! After baking, let the stuffed shells cool, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Q4: How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
A4: To make this dish dairy-free, swap the ricotta for a dairy-free ricotta alternative and use vegan cheese in place of mozzarella and parmesan.

Q5: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A5: Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Both will work wonderfully and give the dish a lighter flavor.

Q6: Can I add more vegetables?
A6: Definitely! You can mix in chopped spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or even a bit of roasted eggplant to the ricotta filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q7: Can I use a store-bought sauce instead of making my own?
A7: Absolutely! A jarred marinara or tomato sauce will work just fine. Just make sure to check the seasoning and add extra herbs if needed.

Q8: How do I store leftovers?
A8: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q9: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A9: Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta shells to make this dish gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Q10: Can I make this dish spicier?
A10: Yes! Add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some chili powder into the ricotta filling for an extra kick of heat.

Conclusion

Creamy Ricotta Mince Stuffed Shell Pasta is the ultimate cozy comfort food with the perfect balance of cheesy, savory goodness. Whether you’re enjoying it on a lazy Sunday or serving it for a family dinner, it’s a dish that will always leave everyone satisfied. You’ve got the rich, creamy filling, the tender pasta, and the mouthwatering sauce—all baked to perfection. What’s not to love? Enjoy every bite!

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