Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells. This delightful recipe combines pasta, a rich filling, and a savory sauce, making it perfect for cozy dinners. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a night in, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will love this recipe for several reasons. First, the combination of creamy ricotta cheese and hearty beef creates a filling that is both satisfying and flavorful. Every bite offers a delicious mix of textures and tastes. Second, this recipe is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Lastly, stuffed shells can be made in advance, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

How to Prepare Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

Now let’s get started on making these tasty, creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells. The process is straightforward, and I’ll walk you through each step.

Ingredients:

To make this dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 12 large pasta shells
• 1 cup of ricotta cheese
• 1 cup of cooked ground beef
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups of marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Follow these instructions to create your creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the shells and cook according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooked ground beef, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, the egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Preheat the Oven: While preparing the filling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Stuff the Shells: Using your hands or a spoon, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta and beef mixture. Place the filled shells in a baking dish, opening side up.
5. Add the Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and enjoy your creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells.

How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

Creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells are versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy them as a main course alongside a fresh side salad or garlic bread. Consider serving with:

• A simple green salad with an olive oil dressing
• Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
• Garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the delicious sauce

Feel free to be creative with your sides!

How to Store Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! You can store creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells with ease. Here are some tips for storing them:

• Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the stuffed shells. Make sure they are cooled completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, either bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions. If they seem dry, add a splash of marinara sauce before reheating.

Tips for Preparing Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

1. Cook the Beef First: Ensure the ground beef is thoroughly cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling light.
2. Experiment with Cheese: While ricotta and mozzarella are traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or fontina for added flavor.
3. Season to Taste: Taste the filling before stuffing the shells. Adjust the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning according to your preference.
4. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta just al dente will help prevent it from becoming mushy when baked.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a day before baking.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, there are several variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Stuffed Shells: Replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Spicy Version: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce for a bit of heat.
• Different Sauces: Instead of marinara, you can use Alfredo sauce for a creamier dish or pesto for a herby flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While large pasta shells are traditional, you can use other types of pasta, such as manicotti or even lasagna sheets, but these may require different assembly methods.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free pasta shells or use a different type of gluten-free pasta that fits the recipe.

3. How can I make my stuffed shells lighter?
You can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Opting for low-fat ricotta can also reduce calories.

4. Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prep! Prepare the stuffed shells in advance and reheat them on busy nights.

This creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and comfort. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! You and your loved ones are in for a treat! Enjoy!