Pasta dishes have a way of bringing comfort to the table, combining heartiness with rich flavors. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that elevates pasta to a new level of indulgence: Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling. This dish marries tender pasta shells filled with a luscious ricotta cheese mixture, topped with savory beef and marinara sauce, and finished with a golden, cheesy crust. It’s a meal that promises to satisfy and impress, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion.
**Recipe**
Imagine a dish where every bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The softness of the pasta shells, the creaminess of the ricotta filling, the robustness of the beef, and the melted cheese on top create a delightful experience for your taste buds. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
**Ingredients**
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells: These are the perfect size to hold the creamy filling.
– 1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich, savory element to the dish.
– 1 cup ricotta cheese: The creamy base for the stuffing.
– 1 cup marinara sauce: Adds a tangy, flavorful sauce to complement the beef.
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully on top for a gooey finish.
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a nutty, salty flavor to the dish.
– 1 egg: Helps bind the ricotta filling.
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with classic herb flavors.
– Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
**Directions/Instructions**
Follow these simple steps to bring this delicious dish to your table.
1. **Preheat the oven** to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is ready to bake the stuffed shells to perfection.
2. **Cook the pasta shells** according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and let them cool slightly. This prevents them from tearing when filled.
3. **Brown the ground beef** in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
4. **Stir in the marinara sauce** with the cooked beef. Mix well and remove from heat. This combination will be spooned over the stuffed shells, adding flavor and moisture.
5. **Prepare the ricotta filling** by combining ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy.
6. **Fill each cooked pasta shell** with the ricotta mixture. Use a spoon to carefully stuff the shells, ensuring they’re generously filled.
7. **Arrange the filled shells** in a baking dish. Position them side by side so they fit snugly in the dish.
8. **Spoon the beef and marinara sauce mixture** over the stuffed shells. Spread it evenly to ensure every shell gets a good amount of sauce.
9. **Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese** evenly on top of the dish. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, bubbly crust.
10. **Cover the dish with foil** and bake for 25 minutes. This helps the dish cook evenly and prevents the cheese from browning too quickly.
11. **Remove the foil** and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This gives the cheese a nice golden color and a slightly crispy texture.
12. **Serve hot and enjoy!** These beef-stuffed shells are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
**FAQ**
**Can I prepare this dish in advance?**
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake, proceed with the recipe instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
**Can I use a different meat or make it vegetarian?**
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for beef. For a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
**What can I serve with these stuffed shells?**
A fresh green salad or garlic bread would pair nicely with this dish, adding a fresh and crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
**How do I store leftovers?**
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
**Conclusion**
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with sophistication. The recipe’s straightforward steps and readily available ingredients make it an excellent choice for any home cook. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or a special weekend meal, this dish is sure to impress with its comforting flavors and satisfying texture.
We invite you to try this recipe and experience the joy of creating something delicious and memorable. For more mouthwatering recipes and cooking inspiration, join our group and become part of a community that celebrates the art of cooking. Happy cooking and bon appétit!