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Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

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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

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. 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.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
  3. 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).
  4. Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, pressing gently to pack.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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