Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s creamy, satisfying, and bursting with Italian flavors, then these Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are a must-try! Each shell is filled with tender beef, rich ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, all topped with a savory tomato basil sauce. Not only is this dish hearty and comforting, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that’s sure to make everyone excited for dinner.

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Why You’ll Love These Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

Imagine taking a bite of tender pasta filled with savory beef, creamy cheese, and a hint of oregano and garlic. This dish is everything you want in Italian-inspired comfort food! Here are just a few reasons these stuffed shells will win you over:

Rich and Creamy Texture: Ricotta and mozzarella combine to create an irresistibly creamy filling.
Savory and Flavorful: Ground beef with garlic, oregano, and tomato basil sauce adds layers of flavor to every bite.
Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is ideal for family dinners or gatherings, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Each bite is reminiscent of a classic lasagna or baked ziti, yet with the unique twist of individual stuffed shells. It’s packed with flavor and sure to satisfy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these creamy, cheesy stuffed shells, gather these ingredients:

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)

Essential Tools for This Recipe

Large pot for cooking pasta
Medium skillet for browning the beef
Mixing bowl
Baking dish (9×13-inch recommended)
Aluminum foil for covering the dish while baking

Ingredient Tips and Substitutions

Ground Meat Options: If you prefer a lighter option, try substituting the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to use Parmesan instead of Pecorino Romano, or add some fontina for extra creaminess.
Sauce Alternatives: Tomato basil sauce provides a fresh, herby flavor, but marinara or a homemade tomato sauce would work beautifully too.

How to Make Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s ready when it’s time to bake.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta Shells

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until they reach an al dente texture. After draining, set the shells aside to cool slightly, which makes them easier to handle.

Prepare the Beef and Cheese Filling

In a medium skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add minced garlic and dried oregano, cooking until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove from heat and let the beef mixture cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled beef mixture with ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, the beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a rich and creamy filling.

Step 3: Stuff the Shells and Assemble

In a baking dish, spread 1 cup of the tomato basil sauce on the bottom.
Next, fill each pasta shell generously with the beef and cheese mixture, arranging them snugly in the baking dish.
Finally, pour the remaining tomato basil sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each shell is coated. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the stuffed shells cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the sauce. A simple green salad with Italian dressing or a classic Caesar salad adds freshness to the meal. A glass of red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese will perfectly complement the flavors.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells

Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the shells just to al dente, as they will continue softening while baking.
Cool the Beef Mixture: Allow the beef mixture to cool slightly before combining it with the cheeses to prevent the ricotta from becoming overly soft.
Don’t Overfill: Fill the shells generously, but don’t overpack, as they may burst during baking.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

These stuffed shells keep well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container. To reheat, place the shells in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings if preferred.

If you’re planning to freeze this dish, assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the shells up to the baking stage, cover them well, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great dish for meal prep or entertaining.

Q: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
A: Yes, cottage cheese is a great substitute! Blend it slightly to create a smoother texture similar to ricotta.

Q: Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
A: Definitely! Skip the ground beef and add more ricotta or even some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables for a tasty vegetarian option.

Wrapping Up: Why Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Are a Must-Make

These Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells offer everything you want in a baked pasta dish—creamy filling, flavorful beef, and a luscious tomato basil sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is both comforting and easy to make. Plus, with options for customizing and preparing in advance, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again!

Looking for more delicious meal ideas? Try these next:

Homemade Tortillas – Perfect for wraps, tacos, and more!
Cabbage Roll Casserole – A hearty, one-dish meal that’s easy and comforting.
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers – Flavorful and juicy, great for grilling!

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Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: ~480 | Protein: ~28g | Carbohydrates: ~30g | Fat: ~25g