The Creamiest Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe Ever

Indulging in a hearty ricotta beef stuffed shells pasta promises a comforting culinary adventure that melts away stress.

Pasta lovers rejoice as these delectable shells burst with rich, savory flavors.

Tender ground beef mingles with creamy ricotta, creating a luxurious filling that hugs each perfectly cooked shell.

Aromatic herbs and spices dance throughout the dish, awakening your taste buds.

Cheese lovers will appreciate the intricate balance of textures and depth of flavor.

Simple ingredients combine to craft a meal that feels like a warm embrace from an Italian grandmother.

Why Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Delights

• Craft Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This stuffed shells recipe delivers a hearty, delicious meal that satisfies both kids and adults with its rich, cheesy filling and classic pasta appeal.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or add extra vegetables to the mixture, making this dish adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences.
• Master One-Dish Wonder: Prepare everything in a single baking dish, minimizing kitchen cleanup and providing a complete meal with protein, cheese, and sauce in one convenient serving.
• Impress Without Stress: Despite looking fancy, this recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques that even novice home cooks can successfully execute.

Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

• Pasta Shells: Large shells perfect for stuffing with a delicious mixture.
• Ground Beef: Adds rich, savory protein to the dish.
• Ricotta Cheese: Provides a creamy and smooth texture to the filling.

• Mozzarella Cheese, Pecorino Romano Cheese: Contribute melty, tangy flavor and additional creaminess to the recipe.

• Garlic, Oregano, Salt, Pepper: Enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Tomato Basil Sauce: Adds moisture and classic Italian-style sauce to the stuffed shells.

• Egg: Helps bind the filling ingredients together and provides structure.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh finish to the baked dish.

Instructions for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375F (190C), getting it ready for some delicious magic.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

Boil pasta shells in generously salted water until they’re perfectly tender but still have a slight bite. Drain and let them cool down just a bit.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano

Let the herbs dance with the meat until they release their aromatic magic. Take off the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Filling

• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Pecorino Romano cheese
• Beaten egg
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix everything until it’s beautifully blended and smooth.

Step 5: Build the Pasta Masterpiece

Spread a layer of tomato basil sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, nestling them snugly in the dish. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the shells. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese turns golden and bubbling.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve these shells piping hot, ready to transport your taste buds to comfort food heaven.

Pro Tips for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

• Select High-Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh, high-quality ground beef and ricotta cheese for the most flavorful and creamy filling.
• Prevent Pasta Overcooking: Boil shells just until al dente to maintain their shape and prevent them from becoming mushy when baked.
• Layer Sauce Strategically: Spread sauce on the bottom and top of shells to keep the pasta moist and enhance overall flavor absorption.
• Cheese Melting Technique: Remove foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow cheese to turn golden and develop a beautiful crispy texture.
• Refrigerate and Reheat Wisely: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven to maintain the pasta's original texture and prevent drying out.

Variations to Try with Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

• Vegetarian Shell Surprise: Replace ground beef with crumbled plant-based meat or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version that maintains the rich, creamy texture.
• Low-Carb Zucchini Shell Option: Swap pasta shells with hollowed zucchini boats, creating a lighter, gluten-free alternative that keeps the delicious cheese and meat filling intact.
• Spicy Mediterranean Remix: Add red pepper flakes, swap Pecorino for feta cheese, and mix in some chopped spinach to give the dish a zesty Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use cashew ricotta instead of traditional ricotta, replace mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives, and keep the robust ground beef filling for a lactose-intolerant friendly recipe.

Pairing Ideas for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

• Savor Wine Harmony: Choose a medium-bodied red like Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the rich beef and creamy cheese flavors, cutting through the dish's richness with balanced acidity.
• Craft Herb Salad Companion: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved Parmesan to balance the hearty pasta, adding fresh, crisp notes that contrast the warm, cheesy shells.
• Enhance Bread Pairing: Serve crusty garlic bread or focaccia to soak up extra sauce, providing a crunchy texture that complements the soft, creamy pasta filling and adds delightful garlic undertones.

Storage Advice for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Transfer stuffed shells to a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place shells in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Add a splash of tomato sauce to maintain moisture.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent shells from becoming rubbery. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm.

FAQs on Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

• What type of ground beef works best for this recipe?

Lean ground beef (85% or 90% lean) is ideal. It provides great flavor while reducing excess grease in the final dish.

• Can I prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the shells and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out.

• Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or mascarpone can work as alternatives. They provide similar creamy texture and help bind the filling ingredients together.

• How do I prevent the pasta shells from tearing while stuffing?

Cook shells until just al dente and handle gently. Let them cool slightly before filling to make them more manageable and less likely to break.

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe

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• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Ricotta beef stuffed shells deliver Italian comfort with rich, hearty flavors nestled in perfectly cooked pasta pockets. Melted cheese, seasoned ground beef, and smooth ricotta blend into a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Main Ingredients:

• 20 large pasta shells
• 1 pound (1 lb) lean ground beef
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Cheese and Binding Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten

Seasoning and Sauce Ingredients:

• 2 cups tomato basil sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare a warm environment inside the oven, heating it precisely to 375F (190C) to ensure optimal cooking conditions.
2. Submerge pasta shells in generously salted boiling water, cooking until they reach a tender al dente texture. Carefully drain and allow shells to cool slightly.
3. Transform ground beef into a savory base by browning it thoroughly in a skillet over medium heat. Incorporate minced garlic and oregano, sautéing until aromatic and releasing rich flavors.
4. Create a luxurious filling by blending the cooled seasoned beef with ricotta, mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, and a whisked egg. Season with salt and pepper, ensuring a harmonious mixture.
5. Establish a flavorful foundation by spreading tomato basil sauce across the bottom of a baking dish. Meticulously stuff each pasta shell with the prepared beef and cheese mixture, arranging them neatly in the dish.
6. Drench the stuffed shells with remaining tomato basil sauce, creating a moisture-rich environment. Generously sprinkle additional mozzarella across the top for a golden finish.
7. Shield the dish with foil, baking for 25 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until cheese transforms into a bubbling, golden crust.
8. Elevate the presentation by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, creating a vibrant contrast. Serve immediately while the shells radiate warmth and rich, comforting flavors.

Notes

• Prep Shells Perfectly: Cook pasta shells just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking, ensuring a perfect texture in every bite.
• Smart Meat Browning: Drain excess fat after browning beef to keep the filling lighter and prevent a greasy consistency.
• Cheese Blend Magic: Mix cheeses thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly, creating a creamy and rich filling that complements the beef.
• Customize Dietary Needs: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version of the dish.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 570 kcal
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 40 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg