Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Oh, friends, if you love comfort food that’s hearty, cheesy, and utterly irresistible, then these Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are about to become your new go-to dish. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta shells cradling a luscious blend of ground beef, melty cheese, and a rich, creamy ricotta filling. The moment you take a bite, the flavors just meld together in a warm, satisfying hug. Trust me, you’re going to want to make this again and again.

This recipe is perfect for those nights when you’re craving something cozy and indulgent but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s also a total crowd-pleaser—whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or just treating yourself, these stuffed shells are a guaranteed hit. Ready to dive in? Let’s make some magic happen in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

This isn’t just any pasta dish; it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone gather around the table with big smiles and empty plates. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

• Versatile: These stuffed shells are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them up for a cozy weeknight meal or bringing them to a potluck, they’re bound to impress.
• Budget-Friendly: No need for fancy ingredients. Ground beef, ricotta, pasta—these are pantry staples you probably already have, but together they create a dish that tastes gourmet.
• Quick and Easy: Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward. You’ll be filling those pasta shells in no time, with minimal fuss.
• Customizable: Want to spice things up? Add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Need a vegetarian option? Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms or spinach. This dish is super flexible to your tastes.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Honestly, what’s not to love? A combo of beef, cheese, and pasta is like a universal hug in the form of food. You’ll definitely get compliments on this one!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these stuffed shells come to life:

• Pasta Shells: The perfect vessel for holding all that delicious filling. They hold everything together while baking to create a perfect bite every time.
• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef gives the filling a savory, hearty base. It’s the perfect complement to the creamy ricotta and mozzarella.
• Ricotta Cheese: The creamy, dreamy part of the filling that gives the dish its rich texture. It’s smooth, indulgent, and oh-so-delicious.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melted cheese that makes every bite extra gooey and satisfying. It’s the secret to making this dish totally irresistible.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan gives the dish that extra savory punch that takes it to the next level.
• Tomato Sauce: The rich, tangy sauce that envelops the stuffed shells, bringing everything together.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dish a perfect Italian flair. Think basil, oregano, and thyme, all dancing together in each bite.
• Garlic: Because what’s Italian food without garlic? It adds a depth of flavor and a lovely aroma.
• Onion: A sweet and savory base that pairs beautifully with the beef.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to create this flavor-packed masterpiece? Let’s get started:

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the stuffed shells bake perfectly and develop that delicious golden top.

Cook the Pasta Shells

Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until they’re al dente. Be careful not to overcook them, as they’ll be baking in the oven later. Drain and set them aside.

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium heat until browned. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in your Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for that classic Italian flavor.

Now, mix in the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and a sprinkle of parmesan. Stir everything together until the filling is creamy and well combined. This is the moment when you’ll start to smell that irresistible combo of cheese and herbs—trust me, it’s heavenly!

Stuff the Shells

Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the beef and cheese filling. Don’t worry if some of the filling spills out—it’ll melt beautifully in the oven.

Assemble the Dish

Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells on top of the sauce, filling side up. Once all the shells are in place, pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top, making sure every shell is covered with melty goodness.

Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Finishing Touches

Once you pull the dish out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes—though I know it’ll be tempting to dive in right away. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for that pop of color and fresh flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve these cheesy, beefy, stuffed shells warm and watch them disappear from the table. Whether you pair them with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or enjoy them on their own, they’re sure to be the highlight of any meal.

How to Serve Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

These stuffed shells are hearty enough to enjoy on their own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a perfect balance to the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with some warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up all that delicious tomato sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, zucchini, or asparagus make a colorful, nutritious addition to the meal.
• As a Standalone: Sometimes, you just need a big plate of pasta—and that’s exactly what these shells deliver. A garnish of fresh herbs like basil will give them a lovely pop.

Additional Tips

• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prep the filling and stuff the shells in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Dietary Adjustments: Want a lighter version? Try swapping out the beef for ground turkey or a plant-based protein. You can also use dairy-free cheeses if you’re avoiding dairy.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
• Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. You’ll have a ready-made meal waiting for you on those busy days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute ground beef with something else? Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute works well in this recipe. You can experiment based on what you prefer.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the shells, cover with foil, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven.

Q3: How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish? Yes! You can freeze it before or after baking. If you freeze it before baking, cover it tightly with foil and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Q5: Can I double the recipe? Yes! Just make sure you have a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra shells. Cooking time may need slight adjustments.

Q6: Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet? You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta shells. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Q7: What sides go well with these stuffed shells? A crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread are all great options to complement these stuffed shells.

Q8: How can I make this dish healthier? To lighten things up, use lean ground beef, low-fat cheese, and add some extra veggies to the sauce.

Q9: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe? A ceramic or glass baking dish works beautifully for this recipe, ensuring even heat distribution for perfectly baked shells.

Conclusion

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are sure to be a hit. With their savory beef filling, creamy ricotta, and rich tomato sauce, they’re the kind of comfort food dreams are made of. Give them a try—you won’t regret it!

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