Name: Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 large pasta shells; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 large egg; Salt and pepper to taste

Imagine sinking your fork into a plate of creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells, where the comforting embrace of warm pasta envelops a rich meat and cheese filling. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising an indulgent culinary experience that feels like a warm hug. It’s a dish that beckons you home after a long day, bringing with it the nostalgia of family dinners and laughter echoing around the table.

Now, let me take you back to one memorable Sunday afternoon when I attempted this recipe for the first time. My family gathered, armed with appetites sharper than my kitchen knives. As they tasted the creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells, their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning! The compliments flowed freely while I basked in my brief moment of culinary glory, all while trying to hide the fact that I had almost burned the garlic bread.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The flavor profile dances between savory beef and creamy ricotta, delighting every palate
Visually stunning with vibrant colors, it’s a feast for both eyes and stomach
Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your fridge

Friends still rave about that dinner; who knew stuffed pasta could inspire such joy?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Large Pasta Shells: Opt for high-quality shells; their size is perfect for holding all that delicious filling.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a balanced richness without overwhelming greasiness.
Ricotta Cheese: Fresh ricotta adds creaminess; don’t skimp on quality for the best flavor.
Marinara Sauce: A good jarred marinara can save time; just ensure it’s flavorful and rich.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful golden crust when baked.
Fresh Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving for a fragrant touch that brightens every bite.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the filling with aromatic warmth; it’s practically essential!
Onion: Sautéed onions add sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.
Egg: An egg binds everything together beautifully in your cheesy filling.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Oven and Pasta Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while boiling salted water in a large pot. Cook the pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain them carefully and set aside.

Sauté Your Aromatics and Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add oil and sauté chopped onion until translucent. Then add minced garlic until fragrant, followed by ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with your spatula.

Create Your Creamy Filling: In a bowl, combine cooked beef mixture with ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, and fresh chopped basil. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.

Stuff Those Shells!: Take each pasta shell and fill it generously with your meat-ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag if you’re feeling fancy. Place filled shells in a baking dish lined with marinara sauce.

Add Sauce and Bake Away!: Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re well covered. Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top before covering with foil. Bake for 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C), then remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.

This comforting Italian classic not only warms your belly but also fills your kitchen with aromas that evoke memories of family gatherings around the dinner table. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

You Must Know

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are not just delicious; they offer a comforting experience
The rich flavors and textures meld perfectly, making every bite a delight
You can personalize them easily, ensuring they fit any occasion or palate

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the shells until al dente. While they cool, brown the ground beef and prepare your sauce for a seamless assembly.

Add Your Touch

Swap ground beef for turkey or add spinach to the ricotta mix for a nutritious boost. Feel free to sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for an added indulgence.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Using fresh ricotta creates a creamier texture that elevates the dish significantly
When assembling, ensure each shell is generously filled to avoid dryness
Baking covered initially helps maintain moisture before browning the top to perfection

The first time I made these stuffed shells, my friends declared it “the best dinner ever,” and I felt like a culinary rockstar!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use different types of cheese in Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells?

Yes, blending mozzarella or parmesan with ricotta adds extra flavor and creaminess.

How do I prevent my stuffed shells from sticking together?

Lightly oil the pasta after cooking and ensure they are spaced apart during storage.

What can I serve with Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells?

Pair them with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a balanced meal option.