Beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling is the ultimate comfort food. Perfectly cooked pasta shells are generously stuffed with a rich ricotta mixture, smothered in a hearty beef marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or a satisfying weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hearty and Filling: The combination of beef, pasta, and cheese makes this a satisfying main course.
Perfect for Meal Prep: You can assemble the dish in advance and bake it when ready.
Customizable: Add veggies, swap out proteins, or try different cheeses to suit your tastes.
Crowd Favorite: The cheesy, saucy flavors are sure to win over even picky eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta
Jumbo Pasta Shells (12): These are the perfect vessels for holding the creamy ricotta filling.
For the Beef Mixture
Ground Beef (1 lb): Adds protein and richness.
Marinara Sauce (1 cup): Provides a flavorful base for the sauce.
For the Ricotta Filling
Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): Creamy and mild, it’s the star of the filling.
Egg (1): Helps bind the filling ingredients together.
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): Adds a herby flavor.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.
For the Topping
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for a gooey topping.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
How to Make Beef-Stuffed Shells
Prepare the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Cook the Beef Mixture
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Drain any excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Stuff the Shells
Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture.
Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer in a greased baking dish.
Assemble the Dish
Spoon the beef and marinara mixture over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top.
Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
Cook Pasta to Al Dente: This prevents the shells from becoming mushy during baking.
Cool the Shells: Allowing the pasta to cool slightly makes stuffing easier.
Customize the Filling: Add spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh herbs to the ricotta mixture for extra flavor.
Even Layering: Ensure the sauce and cheese are evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
Variations to Try
Protein Swap: Replace the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and use a marinara loaded with roasted vegetables.
Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Mix ricotta with mascarpone or cream cheese for an extra creamy filling.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy marinara sauce for heat.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread: Serve alongside slices of warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad for a balanced meal.
Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Chianti, complements the dish beautifully.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready.
Freezing: Freeze the assembled, unbaked shells for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 390
Protein: 23g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 25g
Why This Recipe Works
Flavor Layers: The combination of creamy ricotta, savory beef, and melted cheese creates an irresistible dish.
Texture Contrast: The tender pasta, creamy filling, and melted cheese offer a delightful mix of textures.
Easy Preparation: The recipe is straightforward, with simple steps that even beginners can follow.
Final Thoughts
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a hearty, comforting dish that brings joy to any table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting guests, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and convenience. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, cheesy masterpiece!