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why make this recipe

Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a comforting and hearty meal that the whole family will love. The combination of tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and creamy ricotta cheese creates a delicious dish that is both filling and satisfying. It’s also a great way to use simple ingredients to make something special for dinner. Whether it’s a cozy family night or a gathering with friends, this recipe is easy to prepare and sure to please.

how to make Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Ingredients:

12 jumbo pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (for topping)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, but stop 1-2 minutes before they’re fully done. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Season the cooked beef with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, mix in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese (if using), and shredded mozzarella cheese (if using). Stir until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, pressing gently to ensure it’s packed well.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the marinara sauce in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. After 20-25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is heated through.
Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.

how to serve Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

You can serve Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling straight from the baking dish. Pair them with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top makes for a nice presentation.

how to store Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

If you have leftovers, store the stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them before baking for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cover them well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

tips to make Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Make sure to cook the pasta shells al dente, as they will continue to cook while baking.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
If you are short on time, you can use store-bought marinara sauce to save some effort.

variation

You can switch up the filling by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Additionally, try using different cheese combinations, like feta or gouda, for a unique twist. Adding spices like red pepper flakes can give it a little kick.

FAQs

1. Can I make Beef-Stuffed Shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you are ready to serve.

2. Can I use regular pasta instead of jumbo shells?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta, like manicotti or even lasagna noodles, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

3. What can I serve with Beef-Stuffed Shells?
These stuffed shells pair well with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

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Print Recipe

A comforting meal featuring tender pasta shells filled with seasoned ground beef and creamy ricotta cheese, perfect for family dinners.

Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, stopping 1-2 minutes before fully done. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Season the beef with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and remove from heat to cool slightly. Mix in ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella (if using).
Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, pressing gently to pack.
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top, pour remaining marinara sauce over them, and sprinkle with mozzarella.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, or freeze before baking for up to 3 months.

Author: nevaeh-hall
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: None

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg