Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
Imagine a dish that combines the satisfying heartiness of beef with the creamy softness of ricotta cheese, all enveloped in tender pasta shells. Sounds delightful, right? That’s exactly what you get with Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta! This Italian-inspired recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on your plate, ideal for family dinners or a special gathering. Growing up, I fondly remember my grandmother concocting similar recipes, filling the house with enticing aromas that made everyone flock to the dinner table.
What makes this dish truly special is how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels extravagant. With a prep time of just around 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious dinner that will impress everyone—yes, even that picky eater in your family! If you love the classic flavors of lasagna or baked pasta dishes, then this recipe will surely steal your heart. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into this creamy, savory delight that everyone is bound to love!
What is Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta?
So, what’s the story behind this mouthwatering dish called Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta? Well, it’s not just a catchy name; it beautifully describes everything delicious about it! Let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to delve into a plate of stuffed pasta that’s rich in flavor and comfort? The truth is, stuffed shells have been a favorite in many kitchens because they’re like little edible treasure chests filled with savory goodness.
And here’s a fun fact: the classic saying “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” rings true with this one! A plate of these charming shells is sure to win over anyone’s affection. So if you’ve been looking for a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also warm your heart, look no further—let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
When it comes to dinner ideas, this Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta ticks all the boxes! First and foremost, the main highlight of this dish is the perfect harmony of flavors: ground beef, creamy ricotta, and a robust tomato sauce create a flavor explosion that your taste buds won’t forget easily.
One of the best parts is the cost-saving benefits. You can create an impressive meal in your kitchen without breaking the bank! Plus, the ingredient list is quite approachable—no rare spices or obscure items needed. By preparing this delightful dish at home, you’ll also have the opportunity to control the flavors and adjust them to your family’s preferences.
Another aspect that makes this dish special is the toppings. A sprinkle of mozzarella cheese that melts beautifully in the oven elevates the overall experience, giving it a fantastic gooey finish. This dish certainly holds a candle to classics like lasagna, but its unique stuffed shell presentation offers an extra element of fun. I can’t wait for you to experience this dish—let’s gather the ingredients and dive right in!
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
Quick Overview
Fortunately, making Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is easy, delicious, and deeply satisfying! You’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together, too; with just 30-40 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time. The standout elements, such as the creamy ricotta blend and rich meat sauce, ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Key Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
To make this delightful recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 16 large pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Mix the Cheese: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Season with salt and pepper, stirring until well-mixed.
- Assemble the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). To assemble, spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish, then carefully stuff each shell with the beef and ricotta mixture. Place the stuffed shells in the dish, opening side up.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Once all shells are stuffed, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the entire dish.
- Bake and Serve: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
What to Serve Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta With
To make your meal complete, consider serving the Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta with a few delightful accompaniments. A crisp garden salad dressed in a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or a warm baguette would also be fabulous for soaking up any extra marinara sauce. And for beverages, a light red wine or sparkling water with lemon can cleanse the palate beautifully.
Top Tips for Perfecting Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
Here are some tips to elevate your Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta:
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re looking to make a healthier version, you can opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Additionally, swapping low-fat ricotta or cottage cheese can reduce the calorie count while still providing creaminess.
- Timing Adjustments: Always ensure the shells are slightly undercooked before stuffing, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Cooking them al dente helps maintain the proper texture.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t overfill the shells; they can burst during baking. Also, ensure you generously top with sauce to prevent drying out while it’s in the oven.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers of your delicious Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta, no worries! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. When reheating, bake them covered with foil to retain moisture, ideally at 350°F (175°C), until heated through, or microwave a serving at a time until warm. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality pasta in the comfort of your home!
So there you have it! Your complete guide to making scrumptious Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta. Go ahead and try this recipe, and treat your loved ones to a delightful culinary experience that even your grandmother would be proud of!
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven:
- Set to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the pasta:
- Boil the shells in salted water for 1–2 minutes less than package instructions (they’ll finish cooking in the oven).
- Drain and set aside on a tray to cool slightly.
- Prepare the beef filling:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened (3–4 minutes).
- Add garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Season with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let cool slightly.
- Mix the cheese filling:
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, ½ cup Parmesan, egg, and the cooked beef mixture. Stir until well blended.
- Stuff the shells:
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Fill each pasta shell with 1–2 tablespoons of the beef-ricotta mixture and arrange them in the dish.
- Add sauce and cheese:
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
- Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving warm.
