Easy Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta – Cheesy, Meaty & Delicious

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the satisfying combination of hearty beef, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella nestled within perfectly cooked pasta shells. Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta is a classic dish that is as rich in flavor as it is in tradition. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

In this article, we’ll explore the process of creating this mouthwatering dish from start to finish, and we’ll cover all the little details that make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, we’ll add a special twist to make your Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta stand out even more.

What Makes Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta So Special?

Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta brings together a variety of flavors and textures that complement each other beautifully. The jumbo pasta shells hold the flavorful beef mixture, while the creamy ricotta filling adds richness. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, it creates a harmonious balance of savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy notes.

The key to a successful Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta recipe lies in selecting the right ingredients. Fresh ricotta, quality ground beef, and a homemade marinara sauce (if you have the time) will elevate this dish to the next level. But even store-bought marinara will work wonders, so feel free to use what suits your schedule.

Ingredients for Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, here’s a quick look at the ingredients you’ll need:

For the Stuffed Shells:

• 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef (lean ground beef is ideal)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will give it enough time to reach the perfect temperature while you’re preparing the stuffed shells. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the pasta from sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil the jumbo shells in salted water according to the package directions, cooking them until they’re al dente (firm to the bite). This ensures that they hold their shape when stuffed. Once cooked, drain and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the shells aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Beef Filling

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2–3 minutes until softened. Then, add the ground beef and cook it until browned. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Drain any excess grease and let the mixture cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Once the beef mixture has cooled slightly, add it to the bowl and mix everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Shells

Now comes the fun part—stuffing the shells! Spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, take each cooked pasta shell and stuff it with the beef and cheese mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, open side up. Repeat this step until all the shells are filled.

Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese

Once all the shells are in the dish, spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re well coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top. This will create a delicious, gooey layer when baked.

Step 7: Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the sauce is hot and simmering.

Step 8: Serve

Once baked, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of color and flavor. Serve your Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta hot, alongside a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Why Choose Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta?

Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta is the epitome of comfort food—rich, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying. The combination of beef and cheese is timeless, and the jumbo pasta shells serve as the perfect vessel for holding all the flavors together. This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can make it ahead of time, freeze it for later, or customize the filling with different meats or vegetables.

Here are a few reasons why this dish should be a staple in your kitchen:

1. Convenient for Meal Prep – You can prepare Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.
2. Kid-Friendly – The cheesy, beefy filling makes this dish a hit with kids, making it a perfect family meal.
3. Customizable – You can swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version or add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor.

FAQs About Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling?
Yes, while ricotta is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different texture. Mozzarella or a blend of cheeses can also be used to add more flavor.

2. How do I make Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta ahead of time?
You can assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze the unbaked dish for up to 3 months. Just bake it directly from the freezer, adding 10–15 minutes to the baking time.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta vegetarian by swapping out the ground beef for vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even a plant-based meat alternative.

4. How can I make Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta spicier?
To add a bit of heat, you can incorporate red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce. Adding some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture is another great option.

5. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, store-bought marinara works just as well as homemade in this recipe. Just choose a high-quality brand to get the best flavor.

Conclusion

Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta is a timeless, hearty dish that never fails to deliver. With layers of rich, cheesy goodness and a satisfying beef filling, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings or sauces to make it your own.

So, next time you’re craving comfort food, try this delicious recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!

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