This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells recipe is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish. Filled with a rich beef and ricotta mixture, baked in marinara sauce, and topped with melted cheese, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Shells:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
For the Sauce and Topping:
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, ½ cup Parmesan, the egg, and parsley. Mix well, then fold in the cooked beef mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and ricotta filling, arranging them seam-side up in the baking dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the shells.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the shells. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use a piping bag or a small spoon to easily fill the pasta shells.
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add spinach to the ricotta mixture for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Enjoy this hearty, cheesy, and creamy stuffed shell pasta that’s sure to impress!