Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta

Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta 🍝🧀

These Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta are a hearty, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, creamy ricotta, and Italian seasoning, then baked in marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a favorite.

Let’s dive into how to make these delicious stuffed shells step by step!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Comfort Food Classic : A satisfying blend of pasta, meat, and cheese that’s pure comfort on a plate.
2. Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
3. Customizable : Add veggies, spices, or different cheeses to suit your taste.
4. Make Ahead Friendly : Prep ahead and bake when ready—perfect for busy weeknights.
5. Perfect for Sharing : Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients

(Serves 4–6)

• 12 jumbo pasta shells 🍝
• 1 lb ground beef 🥩
• 1 cup ricotta cheese 🧀
• 1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for layering ) 🍅
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese , shredded 🧀
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese , grated 🧀
• 1 egg 🥚
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning 🌿
• Salt and pepper , to taste 🧂⚫

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Be careful not to overcook, as they will soften further in the oven.
3. Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked through.
2. Drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet.
3. Stir in 1/2 cup of marinara sauce , Italian seasoning , salt , and pepper . Simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese , egg , 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese , and 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese . Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

1. Lay the cooked pasta shells on a clean surface.
2. Spoon a generous amount of the ricotta mixture into each shell, followed by a spoonful of the ground beef mixture . Gently press the filling into the shells to ensure they’re packed.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

1. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, seam-side up, spacing them evenly.
3. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, ensuring they’re generously covered.
4. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes , or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
   • Optional : Broil for the last 2–3 minutes to achieve a deeper golden color on top.

Step 8: Serve

1. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, meaty goodness!

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients : Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella melt better than pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
2. Add Veggies : Stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers to the ricotta or beef mixture for added nutrition.
3. Make Ahead : Assemble the dish up to 1 day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
4. Freeze for Later : Freeze unbaked stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
5. Switch Up the Cheese : Use fontina, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for variety.

Perfect Pairings

This Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Bread : Serve with warm garlic bread or breadsticks for soaking up the sauce.
• Fresh Salad : Pair with a crisp green salad or Caesar salad for balance.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a glass of red wine for refreshment.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 6 servings)

• Calories : ~400 kcal
• Protein : ~25g
• Carbohydrates : ~30g
• Fat : ~20g
• Fiber : ~3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta are a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner, a holiday feast, or a potluck, these stuffed shells deliver on taste and satisfaction. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s as indulgent as it is comforting.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients, adjust the seasonings, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your shells, stuff them with that cheesy beef mixture, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.