Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Deliciously Hearty Comfort Meal 
When it comes to comforting, hearty meals, few dishes can rival the satisfaction of a well-made stuffed pasta. Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta combines the richness of creamy ricotta cheese, savory beef, and the tender embrace of perfectly cooked pasta shells. This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, ideal for family dinners, special gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something filling and delicious. With layers of flavor and a satisfying blend of textures, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your dinner rotation.
Let’s dive into how you can prepare this indulgent meal from scratch with ease!
Ingredients:
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 20 large pasta shells (jumbo shells)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup water (or beef broth, for more flavor)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a touch of heat)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Step-by-Step Preparation:Step 1: Cook the Pasta ShellsStart by boiling the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions. Ensure they’re cooked al dente, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven later. Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly. You can drizzle a bit of olive oil on the shells to prevent them from sticking together.Step 2: Prepare the Beef FillingWhile the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.Once the beef is cooked, remove excess fat (if needed) and lower the heat. Stir in the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until the filling is creamy and well-combined
- Step 3: Prepare the SauceIn a separate saucepan, combine the marinara sauce, heavy cream, and water (or beef broth) over medium heat. Stir in dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld together.Step 4: Stuff the ShellsOnce your beef mixture is ready, it’s time to stuff the pasta shells. Take each cooked shell and carefully fill it with a generous spoonful of the beef and ricotta mixture. Be sure to pack the filling tightly but gently, so it stays inside the shell.Step 5: Assemble the DishPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the stuffed shells in a single layer on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is generously covered with sauce.Step 6: Add the Cheese and BakeSprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the shells. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dish is golden brown on top.Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!Once the Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color, and enjoy this delicious, creamy pasta dish with your favorite side salad and some warm, crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
- Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. This is a great option for meal prepping or when you want to save time on busy evenings.
- Use Fresh Ricotta: For an extra creamy and flavorful filling, consider using fresh ricotta cheese instead of the prepackaged kind.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling to make it more nutritious and flavorful. You can also swap the beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like lentils or tofu.
- Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a larger crowd or want leftovers, double the recipe and bake in a larger dish. The stuffed shells keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and they reheat beautifully.