Cozy Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe

Rich, creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells bring comfort straight to your dinner table with minimal effort.

Pasta lovers appreciate how quickly this dish comes together on busy weeknights.

Tender pasta shells cradle a savory blend of ground beef and smooth ricotta cheese.

Mediterranean flavors dance through each carefully crafted bite, creating a memorable meal.

Fragrant herbs and melted cheese combine to deliver serious satisfaction in every forkful.

Quick preparation means you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner without complicated techniques.

Hungry for something deliciously simple that impresses everyone around the table?

Dive in and create magic with these irresistible stuffed shells.

Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Serving Picks

• Perfect Wine Pairing: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese that complements the rich beef and creamy cheese flavors, cutting through the dish's richness with its balanced acidity.
• Crowd-Pleasing Side Salad: Toss a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, shaved Parmesan, and toasted pine nuts to provide a fresh, tangy contrast to the hearty pasta shells.
• Herb-Infused Garlic Bread: Prepare crusty garlic bread brushed with olive oil, fresh rosemary, and thyme to soak up extra marinara sauce and add a crunchy texture to the meal.
• Refreshing Beverage Companion: Serve cold Italian sparkling water or a light, citrusy craft beer like a wheat ale to cleanse the palate between bites of the rich, cheesy pasta dish.

Ricotta Stuffed Shells Pasta Styles

• Vegetarian Stuffed Shells: Replace ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils, chopped mushrooms, or crumbled tofu. Season with similar herbs and spices for a protein-packed vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells or replace shells with zucchini boats. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap pasta shells for roasted bell pepper halves or large portobello mushroom caps. Keep the rich cheese and beef filling for a keto-friendly alternative that cuts down on carbohydrates.
• Spicy Mediterranean Variation: Add red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. Incorporate feta cheese into the filling and sprinkle za'atar seasoning on top before baking for a zesty Mediterranean-inspired twist.

FAQs

• Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works perfectly as a leaner alternative. Simply follow the same cooking instructions as you would with ground beef.

• Is this recipe suitable for make-ahead meals?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

• How do I prevent the pasta shells from tearing?

Cook the shells just until al dente and handle them gently when stuffing. Use a spoon to carefully fill each shell to avoid ripping. Cooling the shells slightly before stuffing also helps prevent tearing.

• Can I freeze the stuffed shells?

Yes, you can freeze assembled (but unbaked) stuffed shells for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Pasta Shells Stuffed with Creamy Ricotta and Beef

• Effortless Comfort Food: Dive into a hassle-free pasta dish that combines rich, creamy cheese with savory ground beef in perfectly stuffed shells.
• Quick Family Pleaser: Whip up a crowd-favorite meal that satisfies both kids and adults with its delicious blend of cheesy, meaty goodness.
• Versatile Dinner Solution: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or special gatherings, this recipe adapts easily to different occasions and crowd sizes.
• Simple Ingredient Magic: Transform basic pantry staples into a mouthwatering meal that looks and tastes like a gourmet restaurant creation.

Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Ingredient Guide

• Jumbo Pasta Shells: Large pasta shells perfect for stuffing with rich filling.
• Ground Beef: Hearty meat base for the delicious filling.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy cheese that binds the filling together.
• Marinara Sauce: Classic tomato sauce that adds moisture and flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melty cheese that creates a golden topping.

• Garlic, Oregano, Basil: Aromatic herbs that enhance the beef's flavor.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings for balanced taste.

• Egg, Parmesan Cheese: Ingredients that help hold the filling together.
• Parsley: Fresh herb for garnish and added brightness.

Making Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta Shells

Cook jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted water following package directions. Make sure the shells are perfectly al dente. Carefully drain the water and spread shells on a clean surface to cool completely.

Step 2: Brown Beef Mixture

• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano
• Fresh basil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the kitchen fills with delicious herbal fragrance. Let the beef mixture cool down.

Step 3: Create Cheese Blend

• Smooth ricotta cheese
• Shredded mozzarella
• Grated Parmesan
• Beaten egg

Fold in the cooled beef mixture until everything combines perfectly.

Step 4: Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Carefully fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture, then arrange them neatly in the dish.

Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese turns golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the shells to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and savor every delicious bite!

Shell Stuffing Tips for Ricotta Beef Pasta Dinners

• Prevent Overcooking Shells: Boil pasta shells just until al dente to keep them firm and prevent tearing when stuffing with filling.
• Balance Meat Seasoning: Use fresh herbs and adjust salt and pepper to enhance the ground beef's flavor without overpowering the cheese.
• Manage Moisture Levels: Drain excess beef fat and let mixtures cool slightly to prevent watery or soggy stuffed shells.
• Cheese Mixing Technique: Blend ricotta and other cheeses thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy filling that binds ingredients together.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare stuffed shells in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for a convenient meal prep option.

Store Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta Well

• Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap individual portions or entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove shells from refrigerator, place in baking dish, cover with foil. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Uncover last 5 minutes to crisp cheese top.
• Place shells on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until temperature reaches 165°F. Let stand 1-2 minutes before serving.

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Ricotta beef stuffed shells bring Italian comfort straight to dinner tables with rich, savory layers of seasoned meat and smooth cheese nestled in tender pasta shells. Hearty ingredients and classic Mediterranean flavors combine to create a memorable meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
• 1 egg

Cheese:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) ricotta cheese
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta and Seasonings:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups (480 milliliters) marinara sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare a generously salted water bath in a large pot, carefully immersing jumbo pasta shells until they reach perfect al dente consistency. Gently drain and allow shells to cool and rest.
2. Transform ground beef into a flavorful base by browning in a skillet over medium heat. Infuse with aromatic garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, creating a robust and fragrant mixture. Allow the meat to cool slightly.
3. Craft a luxurious cheese blend by whisking ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg into a smooth, creamy foundation. Fold the seasoned beef mixture into the cheese blend, ensuring thorough integration of flavors.
4. Warm the oven to 375°F (190°C). Create a sauce foundation by spreading marinara across a 9×13-inch baking vessel. Meticulously fill each pasta shell with the beef-cheese mixture, arranging them carefully in the dish.
5. Cascade the remaining marinara over the stuffed shells, ensuring complete coverage. Generously sprinkle the reserved mozzarella across the top, creating a promising golden landscape.
6. Drape the dish with aluminum foil, then bake for 25 minutes. Unveil the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbling, golden masterpiece.
7. Allow the shells a brief moment to settle and cool. Embellish with freshly chopped parsley, presenting a vibrant and appetizing finale to this comforting pasta creation.

Notes

• Experiment with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian alternative to beef.
• Toast herbs in the skillet before adding beef to intensify their aromatic flavors and enhance overall depth.
• Drain cooked ground beef thoroughly to prevent excess grease and ensure a crisp, clean filling texture.
• Undercook pasta shells slightly during boiling, as they’ll continue cooking in the oven, preventing mushy texture.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg