Introduction and Overview
What are Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells?
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells is a comforting and hearty Italian-inspired dish that combines jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a rich mixture of ricotta cheese, ground beef, and seasonings. The stuffed shells are then baked in a flavorful marinara sauce and topped with gooey, melted mozzarella cheese, creating a dish that’s creamy, savory, and utterly satisfying. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a classic, cheesy, baked pasta dish.
A Crowd-Pleasing Classic
These stuffed shells are not only delicious but also versatile. The combination of ricotta cheese and beef filling creates a delightful contrast of creamy and meaty textures, while the marinara sauce adds a tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the cheese and beef. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients and Nutritional Benefits
Main Ingredients
Jumbo Pasta Shells
Jumbo pasta shells are the perfect vehicle for holding the rich, cheesy beef filling. They are large enough to be stuffed and bake beautifully when covered with sauce.
Ground Beef
Ground beef adds heartiness to the filling, providing protein and a savory flavor that complements the creamy ricotta. You can opt for lean ground beef to reduce the fat content.
Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese is creamy and mild, making it the ideal base for the filling. It provides a rich, smooth texture and pairs beautifully with the ground beef and marinara sauce.
Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce adds a tangy, flavorful base for the stuffed shells. You can use store-bought marinara for convenience or make your own for a homemade touch.
Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully on top of the shells, creating a bubbly, golden-brown topping that adds the perfect cheesy finish to the dish.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the filling and is often sprinkled on top for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
Rich in Protein and Calcium
The combination of ground beef and ricotta cheese provides a good source of protein, while the ricotta and mozzarella cheese are rich in calcium, which is essential for bone health.
Customizable for Lower Fat Options
To reduce the fat content, you can use lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey or chicken. You can also opt for part-skim ricotta and mozzarella to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
Preparation and Variations
Basic Recipe
Ingredients List
To make Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells, you’ll need:
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 ½ cups tomato basil sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente. Drain and set them aside to cool slightly.
3️⃣ Prepare the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the minced garlic and oregano, cooking until the garlic is fragrant.
Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the beef mixture to cool.
In a large bowl, mix the cooled beef, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Pecorino Romano, and the beaten egg. Season with salt and black pepper, stirring until well combined.
4️⃣ Stuff and Assemble:
Spread 1 cup of tomato basil sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish.
Fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, and place them neatly in the dish.
Pour the remaining 1 ½ cups of tomato basil sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well-covered.
5️⃣ Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top of the shells.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
6️⃣ Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy this flavorful and comforting meal!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~455 kcal per serving
Recipe Variations
Spinach Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells
Add 1 cup of cooked, chopped spinach to the ricotta-beef mixture for added greens and nutrition. This version adds color and a slight earthiness that pairs well with the cheesy filling.
Sausage-Stuffed Shells
For a spicier option, replace the ground beef with Italian sausage. You can use mild, sweet, or spicy sausage, depending on your preference. The sausage adds a burst of flavor to the filling.
Vegetarian Stuffed Shells
Skip the beef and use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a combination of vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version. This option is just as creamy and flavorful without the meat.
Four-Cheese Stuffed Shells
Make these stuffed shells extra cheesy by adding ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone to the filling. This version is ideal for cheese lovers and creates an ultra-rich dish.
Low-Carb Stuffed Shells
For a low-carb twist, replace the pasta shells with hollowed-out zucchini or bell peppers. Fill them with the same ricotta-beef mixture and bake as directed.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serving Suggestions
With Garlic Bread
Pair Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells with garlic bread or garlic knots for a classic Italian meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up the extra marinara sauce.
With a Fresh Salad
Serve these stuffed shells with a simple green salad or Caesar salad for a balanced meal. The crispness of the salad complements the rich, cheesy pasta dish.
As a Main Course
These stuffed shells are filling enough to be served as a main course. Simply add your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or sautéed spinach for a complete meal.
Pairing Ideas
With Red Wine
A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, pairs beautifully with the richness of the ricotta, beef, and tomato sauce. The acidity in the wine balances the creamy and savory flavors of the dish.
With Iced Tea
For a non-alcoholic option, serve this dish with a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade. The lightness of the drink contrasts nicely with the rich, cheesy stuffed shells.
With Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make an excellent side dish for this meal. The smoky, caramelized flavors of the veggies pair well with the creamy filling.
With Pesto
For a twist, drizzle some basil pesto over the top of the stuffed shells after baking. The fresh, herby pesto adds brightness and flavor contrast to the creamy, cheesy shells.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the stuffed shells a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Cover them tightly with foil and bake when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes, stuffed shells freeze well. Assemble the shells in a baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of ground beef. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables or mushrooms.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes! Store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly for this recipe. If you prefer homemade, you can use your favorite marinara recipe as well.
Conclusion
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy ricotta, and marinara sauce inside tender pasta shells. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting guests, this hearty dish is sure to impress. With its customizable options and crowd-pleasing appeal, these stuffed shells will quickly become a go-to favorite for any occasion!