These Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are a comforting and indulgent Italian-inspired dish. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef and creamy ricotta, topped with marinara sauce, and baked to perfection with melted cheese.
📋 Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef 🥩
- 1 cup ricotta cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 large egg, beaten 🥚
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder 🌰
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 🌿
- 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 🌶️
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional) 🌿
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz jumbo pasta shells 🍝
- 2 cups marinara sauce 🍅
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional) 🌿
📝 Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the shells:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef Filling:
- Cook the ground beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and remove from heat.
- Mix the filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley (if using). Mix until well combined.
3. Stuff the Pasta Shells:
- Fill the shells:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon the beef and ricotta mixture into each cooked pasta shell, filling them generously.
- Arrange in the dish:
- Place the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish, open side up.
4. Add the Sauce and Cheese:
- Top with marinara:
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them generously.
- Add cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the marinara sauce.
5. Bake the Shells:
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
- Garnish and serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the shells cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 1 hour
🍽️ Servings: 4-6 servings
🔥 Calories: Approximately 500-600 kcal per serving
This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells dish is hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect comfort food for family dinners or special occasions! 🍝🧀🌿