Description: Jumbo pasta shells filled with a savory beef and marinara mixture, nestled in a creamy ricotta filling, and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This is comfort food elevated, perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend is recommended for flavor and moisture)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk ricotta preferred for richness)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 small onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the shells thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Gently place the shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture: If using, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside. This is your delicious, flavorful beefy base.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth and well combined. The egg acts as a binder, holding the filling together during baking. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want to add a touch of freshness, consider incorporating a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or basil.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells: This is where the magic happens! Take each cooled pasta shell and gently fill it with the ricotta mixture. Use a spoon or your fingers to ensure the shell is generously stuffed. Don’t overstuff, as the filling may spill out during baking. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish in a single layer. A 9×13 inch baking dish works well, but you can use a smaller dish if needed, adjusting the number of shells accordingly. Make sure the shells are snugly packed together to prevent them from drying out.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish and Bake: Spoon the beef and marinara mixture evenly over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is adequately coated. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the pasta moist during baking. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses generously over the top. The mozzarella will melt and create a gooey, cheesy topping, while the Parmesan will add a salty, nutty flavor. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This will allow the shells to heat through and the flavors to meld together. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on the dish during the last few minutes of baking to prevent the cheese from burning.
Step 6: Rest and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Comfort Food Classic: It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the familiar flavors of pasta, meat, and cheese in a delightful way.
- Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of the savory beef and marinara mixture, the creamy ricotta filling, and the melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a complex and delicious flavor profile.
- Easy to Customize: This recipe is easily adaptable to suit your personal preferences. You can use different types of meat, cheeses, or sauces.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The stuffed shells can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake, making it a perfect dish for entertaining.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty and cheesy pasta dish.
COOKING Rating: Intermediate
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for dipping into the extra sauce.
- Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus make a healthy side dish.
- A simple Caprese salad with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is a refreshing accompaniment.
- Offer a selection of red pepper flakes for those who like a little extra heat.
Tips:
- To prevent the shells from sticking together after cooking, toss them with a little olive oil.
- Don’t overcook the pasta shells, as they will become mushy during baking.
- Use a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with a corner cut off to easily fill the shells with the ricotta mixture.
- If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can substitute a mixture of dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu.
- To add more flavor to the beef mixture, consider adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 30-35g
- Sodium: 600-800mg
Conclusion:
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s a hearty, comforting, and customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is a winner. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. Bon appétit!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble the stuffed shells, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dish from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining.
Q2: Can I freeze the stuffed shells?
A: Yes, you can freeze the stuffed shells, either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the shells as directed, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. To freeze after baking, let the shells cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Q3: I don’t have ricotta cheese. Can I substitute it with something else?
A: While ricotta cheese provides a unique creamy texture and flavor, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or even cream cheese in a pinch. If using cottage cheese, make sure to drain it well to remove excess moisture. If using cream cheese, soften it slightly before mixing with the other filling ingredients. Keep in mind that these substitutions will alter the flavor and texture of the filling slightly.
Q4: What can I do if my marinara sauce is too thin?
A: If your marinara sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it in a saucepan over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reduces and thickens slightly. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to help thicken the sauce.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to the beef mixture or ricotta filling?
A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. You can add finely chopped vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the beef mixture while it’s cooking. You can also add chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano to the ricotta filling for added freshness. Get creative and experiment with your favorite vegetables and herbs to create a personalized version of this recipe.
