There’s something magical about a bubbling tray of stuffed pasta shells coming out of the oven. Filled with a cheesy beef mixture and smothered in tomato sauce, these stuffed shells are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This recipe is easy to prepare yet feels indulgent enough for special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Cheesy: The creamy ricotta and mozzarella filling is perfectly balanced with savory beef.
- Family-Friendly: A meal that everyone, including picky eaters, will enjoy.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the shells ahead and bake them when ready.
- Customizable: Easily swap the beef for sausage or make it vegetarian with spinach.
Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 ½ cups tomato basil sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Chef’s Tip: Use high-quality tomato basil sauce for the best flavor or make your own at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by spreading 1 cup of tomato basil sauce on the bottom.
2. Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until al dente, following the package instructions.
- Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef.
- Add the minced garlic and oregano, cooking until the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the beef mixture, ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, Pecorino Romano, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Stuff the Shells
- Fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta and beef mixture.
- Arrange the stuffed shells snugly in the prepared baking dish on top of the sauce.
5. Assemble and Bake
- Pour the remaining tomato basil sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Let the dish cool slightly after removing it from the oven.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm with garlic bread or a crisp salad.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your meal with these perfect pairings:
- Garlic Bread: A must-have for scooping up the extra sauce.
- Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or arugula salad adds freshness.
- Red Wine: Pair with a medium-bodied Chianti or Merlot for a classic Italian experience.
Chef’s Tips for Success
- Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Cook the shells just until al dente; they will continue cooking in the oven.
- Customize the Filling: Add spinach, mushrooms, or even sausage for variety.
- Double the Recipe: This dish freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the stuffed shells up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish without baking, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
What other cheeses can I use?
Cottage cheese or mascarpone can replace ricotta, and Parmesan works well in place of Pecorino Romano.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results.
What’s a good substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat work wonderfully.
Conclusion
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. Perfect for a hearty dinner or a make-ahead meal, this dish is a guaranteed hit with family and friends. Pair it with your favorite sides, pour a glass of wine, and savor every bite of this Italian-inspired classic.