There’s nothing like the comfort of a warm, cheesy pasta dish—especially when it’s bursting with flavors as rich and comforting as this Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta! Today, I’m bringing you this cozy, satisfying recipe that’s easy to put together yet impressive enough to make for a special dinner. With tender pasta shells filled with creamy ricotta, savory beef, and topped with a blanket of melty mozzarella, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ready to make it with me? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells hit the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a hint of savory beef. The stuffed shells are not only fun to make but are also an incredible comfort food that both kids and adults will enjoy. Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Rich and Creamy: With ricotta and mozzarella, every bite is perfectly creamy and gooey.
- Satisfying and Filling: Loaded with beef and cheese, this dish is hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
- Perfectly Seasoned: The combination of Italian seasoning, garlic, and marinara sauce gives it that classic Italian flavor we crave.
- Easy to Make: Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is easy to follow and foolproof.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells – Cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
- 1 lb ground beef – Adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – Creamy and mild, making the filling super indulgent.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Divided; half for the filling and half for the top.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds that signature cheesy tang.
- 1 egg – Binds the filling together.
- 2 cups marinara sauce – Use a quality sauce for the best flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a fragrant touch of warmth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – The essential Italian herb blend.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish – Optional, but a nice fresh touch at the end.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil
- Spoon for stuffing the shells
Ingredient Tips and Possible Substitutions
- Ricotta Cheese: For a slightly different taste, try cottage cheese instead of ricotta.
- Beef: Ground turkey or Italian sausage can be used for a variation in flavor.
- Mozzarella: For an extra cheesy twist, you can use provolone or even fontina cheese.
- Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have it, mix up some dried basil, oregano, and thyme for a homemade blend.
- Marinara Sauce: Homemade marinara adds a personal touch, but store-bought works just as well.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot when your stuffed shells go in.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells
Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions, making sure they’re al dente. Once done, drain them and set them aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth. Add the beef mixture to the cheese filling and stir until evenly combined.
Step 5: Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta and beef mixture. Place each stuffed shell in a baking dish, arranging them close together so they stay upright.
Step 6: Add Sauce and Mozzarella
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each one is covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that melty, golden finish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh basil on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy every bite of this creamy, cheesy, and savory delight!
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed shells are a star on their own but pair beautifully with:
- Garlic bread: Perfect for scooping up any extra sauce.
- Caesar salad: Adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich pasta.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables: Broccoli or green beans make great side options.
- A glass of red wine: If you’re feeling fancy, pair with a medium-bodied red like Chianti.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells
- Al Dente is Key: Don’t overcook your pasta shells; they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
- Use Quality Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella give the best flavor.
- Let the Beef Cool Slightly: If the beef is too hot, it can make the filling runny when you add the cheese.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave for a quick meal. You can also freeze stuffed shells; just cover them well in the baking dish, freeze, and bake from frozen, adding 15–20 minutes to the bake time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed shells, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for prepping a day in advance.
Can I freeze the stuffed shells? Yes, these freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen at 375°F, covered, for about 40–45 minutes, then uncover and bake until bubbly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Can I add vegetables to the filling? Absolutely! Finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added to the filling for an extra veggie boost.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
More Cheesy Pasta Recipes to Try
- Baked Ziti with Sausage and Spinach: A crowd-pleaser that’s always a hit.
- Classic Lasagna with Ricotta and Mozzarella: Traditional comfort food at its finest.
- Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake: A vegetarian delight, rich and creamy.
If you try this Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells recipe, let me know how it turns out! Drop a review below, or share a photo on Pinterest—I love seeing your delicious creations! Happy cooking, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
