Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that will pamper your taste buds and satisfy your cravings. From the moment you pop it in the oven, the intoxicating aromas of savory beef and rich, creamy ricotta waft through your kitchen, promising a meal that’s as delicious as it is nostalgic. This recipe is a step-by-step guide to creating a dish that’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors, you’ll find that this recipe is not just about filling your belly, but also warming your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. With only a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. This dish is also a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a go-to option for family dinners. Finally, the creamy ricotta and savory beef filling create a flavor profile that is nothing short of irresistible – it’s comfort food at its best!

Ingredients

This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is not just about taste; it’s also about texture and visual appeal. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb ground beef: Juicy and flavorful, the foundation of your stuffed shells.
1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and rich, this cheese adds delightful texture and flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty and stretchy, mozzarella provides that oh-so-satisfying cheese pull.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A nutty and savory flavor that enhances every bite.
1 large egg: Helps bind the filling and adds richness.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and savory, garlic brings warmth to the dish.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: A burst of freshness and color.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
20 jumbo pasta shells, cooked and drained: Perfectly al dente, waiting to be stuffed.
3 cups marinara sauce: Tangy and rich, it brings the dish together beautifully.
1 cup heavy cream: Adds silkiness and a luxurious mouthfeel.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping): A final cheesy crust that’s simply irresistible.

Step-by-Step Directions

Getting started with Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is straightforward. Follow these detailed steps for a perfect dish every time:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring easy removal later.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks, ensuring it browns nicely. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
Add minced garlic to the beef and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can turn bitter. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, 1/2 cup Parmesan, the egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed, then add the cooked beef mixture. Combines all flavors beautifully!
Stuff each jumbo shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Use a spoonfully or your fingers to ensure each shell is generously filled. Place the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish, standing upright.
In a separate bowl, mix together the marinara sauce and heavy cream, creating a creamy sauce that will envelop the shells. Pour this mixture evenly over the stuffed shells.
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese atop the shells, creating a golden crust while baking. Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this initial baking time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. This small waiting time allows the flavors to settle and the filling to firm up a bit.

Tips & Tricks

For an even richer flavor, try using a combination of ground beef and ground turkey or chicken. This mix will keep your dish slightly lighter while still retaining that hearty taste. Additionally, if you want some extra flair, toss in some sautéed spinach or bell peppers to the filling for added nutrients and color. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish with a subtle heat.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed shells. Garlic bread is a classic choice, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a more Mediterranean touch, serve alongside roasted vegetables or grilled asparagus to bring balance and a burst of color to your meal.

Nutritional Information

This delightful dish provides a balanced meal that can be enjoyed guilt-free. One serving contains approximately 450 calories, with a good source of protein and calcium from the cheese and beef. It’s essential to pair this hearty meal with plenty of vegetables to maintain a balanced diet. To keep the caloric content in check, consider using lean ground beef and reducing the amount of heavy cream.

Storing Tips & Variations

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, covering it with foil to prevent drying out. For long-term preservation, you can also freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Variations include swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or adding different herbs and spices to the cheese mixture for unique flavor profiles.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dish that embodies comfort and satisfaction, Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a must-try. This easy recipe brings together savory beef, creamy cheeses, aromatic herbs, and a luscious sauce that your family and friends will love. We encourage you to give this recipe a shot and share your experience. There’s nothing quite like sitting down to a warm, hearty meal that you’ve prepared with love.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed shells and assemble them in the baking dish a day ahead. Simply cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When preparing from the fridge, you might need to adjust the baking time slightly.

2. Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and lentils for a delicious vegetarian filling packed with nutrients.

3. Can I use different types of cheese?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. A blend of ricotta, feta, and goat cheese, for example, can create a delightful tangy filling.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?
While jumbo shells are traditional for this recipe, any large tubular pasta such as cannelloni or even manicotti can work well.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, you can mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into your beef mixture, or serve it with a spicy marinara sauce on the side.