Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells : if you are looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, then look no further than Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells. This delightful dish combines large pasta shells with a rich filling of beef and creamy ricotta cheese, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells have so much to offer. First, they are incredibly delicious, with the flavors of savory beef and creamy cheese coming together beautifully. Second, they are hearty and filling, making them a great option for feeding a crowd or satisfying hungry family members. Third, this dish is versatile; you can customize the filling with different ingredients or top it with your favorite sauce. Finally, this recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. With just a few simple steps, you will have a mouthwatering meal on your table.

How to Prepare Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

Preparing Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Below, we will walk you through the ingredients you need and the step-by-step instructions to make this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

• 20 large pasta shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta Shells: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook the beef until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
3. Combine the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until thoroughly combined.
4. Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon some marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Take each pasta shell and fill it generously with the beef and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish in a single layer.
5. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Once all the shells are filled and placed in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the leftover mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve: Once out of the oven, let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are perfect for a hearty dinner. You can serve them with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread is also a nice complement to soak up the delicious sauce. If you want to make the meal feel more special, serve with a glass of red wine. This dish is also great for meal prepping; simply bake it ahead of time and reheat for a quick weeknight dinner.

How to Store Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

If you have leftover Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells, you can store them easily. Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Just prepare them according to the instructions, but do not bake. Instead, cover the baking dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you are ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

Tips for Preparing Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta shells to al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
• Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add vegetables to the filling, such as chopped spinach or finely diced bell peppers. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Sauce Variation: You can use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own from scratch. Adding fresh herbs or spices can enhance the flavor even more.
• Make It Cheesy: For extra cheesiness, you can add more mozzarella or a mix of different cheeses to the filling.

Variations

There are many ways to customize Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a little heat.
• Different Sauces: Try using Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a creamy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
   Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed shells either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake when ready to serve.
3. What should I serve with Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells?
   It pairs well with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, and a glass of red wine. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes! Feel free to use any cheese you like. Mozzarella, provolone, and even cheddar can work well in this recipe.

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are not just easy to make but also provide comfort in every bite. With their creamy texture, delicious flavors, and simple preparation, you won’t regret trying this recipe for your next family meal. Enjoy!