Introduction: If you’re craving a delicious, comforting meal that combines rich, savory beef with creamy ricotta cheese, this creamy ricotta beef-stuffed shells pasta is the perfect dish. Stuffed pasta shells are filled with a savory blend of ground beef, garlic, ricotta, and mozzarella, baked in a rich marinara sauce. It’s an easy, family-friendly dinner that can be made ahead and baked when you’re ready. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients: For the stuffed shells:
20-25 jumbo pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
2 tbsp fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
For the marinara sauce:
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
Directions:
Prepare the shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside on a baking sheet to cool slightly.
Cook the beef filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and egg. Add the cooked beef mixture to the bowl and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Stuff the shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each cooked pasta shell and spoon the beef and cheese mixture into each shell, filling them generously.
Assemble the dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, making sure to cover them evenly.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the cheese on top become bubbly and golden.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips:
