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Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Imagine biting into a pasta shell filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture and juicy ground beef, all baked in a rich tomato sauce. That's the delightful experience of Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling. This dish is a true comfort food that promises to satisfy your cravings for something rich and satisfying. For me, stuffed shells have always been a family favorite. I remember weekends spent in the kitchen as a child, watching my mom prepare various stuffed pasta dishes. They were always a hit at the dinner table, and now I'm excited to share my take on this classic dish. If you're looking for a quick and easy meal that's perfect for family dinner, this recipe is a must-try. Compared to our popular "Creamy Chicken Pesto Pasta," this dish offers a hearty twist with its beef and ricotta filling, making it a stand-out choice for meat lovers.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
  • Filling:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg for binding
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper

Method
 

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Shells:
  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Filling:
  4. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ricotta cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
  5. Assemble the Shells:
  6. Spoon the beef-ricotta mixture into each pasta shell, filling them to capacity without overstuffing.
  7. Make the Tomato Sauce Layer:
  8. In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange the stuffed shells on top in an even layer.
  9. Bake:
  10. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure each shell is partially covered. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
  11. Bake Until Golden:
  12. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the shells are golden brown.
  13. Serve:
  14. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
  15. What to Serve with Beef-Stuffed Shells
  16. While this dish is a complete meal on its own, here are some ideas to enhance it:
  17. Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
  18. Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for dipping in the tomato sauce.
  19. Refreshing Drink: A tall glass of iced tea or lemonade to balance the flavors.
  20. Top Tips for Perfecting Beef-Stuffed Shells
  21. Pasta Shells: Ensure the pasta shells are not overcooked to avoid breakage during stuffing.
  22. Filling: For extra moisture, add a tablespoon of tomato sauce to the filling mixture.
  23. Timing: Prepare the filling while the pasta shells are cooking to save time.
  24. Storing and Reheating Tips
  25. Storage: Cool the dish completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  26. Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of water to the sauce if needed.
  27. Conclusion
  28. "Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling" is more than just a meal; it's a comforting experience that combines rich flavors and textures. With its creamy ricotta filling and juicy ground beef, it's sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it alone, this dish offers a satisfying and hearty meal. Why not give it a try? Tag us when you make it, and let us know how you enjoyed this dish. Happy cooking!