Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

When you’re craving a dish that’s both hearty and comforting, Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is the perfect answer. The combination of tender pasta shells, a savory beef filling, and a rich ricotta mixture creates a meal that’s truly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just for a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress.

The creamy ricotta filling, paired with seasoned ground beef, makes each bite a flavorful experience. Covered in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, these stuffed shells come out of the oven golden, bubbly, and irresistible. This dish is a beautiful blend of textures and flavors that will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are large pasta shells filled with a savory beef mixture and rich ricotta cheese, baked to perfection with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella on top. The creamy ricotta filling perfectly complements the seasoned beef, while the marinara sauce adds a tangy, flavorful kick. These stuffed shells are a filling and comforting dish that makes for an impressive dinner or holiday meal.

The best part? They’re easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or part of an Italian-inspired feast, Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are sure to be a hit.

Exciting Story:

I first made Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling when I was looking for a comforting dinner that could feed my whole family without too much fuss. I had always loved stuffed shells at Italian restaurants, but I wanted to make them myself. After some experimenting, I found the perfect combination of beef and ricotta that gave the shells a rich, savory filling, while keeping the dish light and satisfying.

The first time I made them, my family couldn’t get enough. The blend of the creamy ricotta, seasoned beef, and marinara sauce was the perfect balance of flavors. Now, every time I make this dish, it feels like a celebration. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed shells are guaranteed to delight.

Why This Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling:

• Rich and Flavorful Filling: The combination of seasoned ground beef and creamy ricotta is perfectly balanced for a satisfying filling.
• Comforting and Hearty: This dish is a great way to fill up without feeling overly heavy, thanks to the perfect blend of pasta, beef, and cheese.
• Make-Ahead Meal: You can easily prepare the shells ahead of time and bake them when ready, making it a great choice for busy nights or dinner parties.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, meaty filling and flavorful sauce make these stuffed shells a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: You can add your own twists to the filling, such as adding spinach, herbs, or even sausage to suit your taste.

What You Need For Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling:

For the stuffed shells:

• 16 large pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
• 1 large egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the marinara sauce:

• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling:

1. Cook the pasta shells:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes for al dente. Drain and set aside, making sure to keep them separated so they don’t stick together.
2. Prepare the beef filling:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic, ground beef, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Make the ricotta filling:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and egg. Add the cooled beef mixture and mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
4. Stuff the shells:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef-ricotta filling and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with sauce and cheese:
   Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are all covered. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesy, bubbly finish.
6. Bake the shells:
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and enjoy:
   Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling:

• Use lean beef: To make the dish a bit lighter, you can use lean ground beef or even ground turkey.
• Add vegetables to the filling: Spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or zucchini can be added to the beef-ricotta filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells the day before, cover them, and store them in the fridge until ready to bake. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from chilled.
• Freeze leftovers: These stuffed shells freeze well! Just allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven until hot.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Vegetarian version: Replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and onions for a vegetarian version. Add extra ricotta and mozzarella cheese to make up for the missing meat.
• Spicy version: Add some chopped fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for some extra heat.
• Different cheese blend: Use a mixture of mozzarella, ricotta, and cottage cheese for a lighter but equally delicious filling.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Low-fat options: Use reduced-fat ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to reduce the calorie count.
• Zucchini noodles: For a low-carb version, swap the pasta shells for zucchini noodles (also called “zoodles”) to create a healthier, gluten-free dish.
• Less meat: You can replace part or all of the ground beef with ground turkey or even lentils for a plant-based option.

Closing for Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling:

And there you have it! Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together all the best flavors of Italian cuisine. The rich, cheesy filling, savory beef, and tangy marinara sauce make this dish both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, these stuffed shells will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Serve with a side salad and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Italian-inspired meal.

Frequently Asked Questions For Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling:

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey works well in this recipe for a lighter option.
2. Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
   Yes, these stuffed shells freeze beautifully. Just assemble, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. Bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time to the cooking.
3. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
   You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor and texture, but ricotta is the traditional choice for this recipe.
4. Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
   Absolutely! Try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
5. Can I make these shells ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble the shells ahead of time, refrigerate them, and bake them when you’re ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
6. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
   Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works just fine. If you prefer homemade, you can make your own marinara sauce from scratch as well.
7. Can I use gluten-free pasta shells?
   Yes, gluten-free pasta shells will work great in this recipe for a gluten-free version.
8. How do I make these shells spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes or some diced fresh chili to the beef filling for a spicy kick.
9. Can I skip the cheese in the filling?
   If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative like vegan ricotta.
10. Can I use fresh basil in the filling?
    Yes, fresh basil would make a wonderful addition to the beef-ricotta filling for extra flavor.
11. What can I serve with these stuffed shells?
    Serve these shells with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
12. Can I use different types of cheese for the topping?
    Yes, you can use a blend of mozzarella, provolone, or even Parmesan cheese for a different flavor on top.
13. What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings.
14. Can I make a vegetarian version of these stuffed shells?
    Yes, swap the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and onions for a delicious vegetarian option.
15. What should I do if the filling is too thick?
    If the filling is too thick, add a little extra milk or ricotta to loosen it up before stuffing the shells.
16. Can I serve these shells for a holiday dinner?
    Absolutely! These stuffed shells make a great main dish for any special occasion or holiday dinner. They’re filling and impressive!

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Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are the ultimate comfort food—perfectly balanced, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether for family dinners or special occasions, they’ll surely become a go-to favorite in your household!