Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe 😋

A comforting classic, Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells combines the perfect balance of rich, cheesy filling with a creamy marinara sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or when you’re simply craving an indulgent Italian-inspired meal. Follow this recipe to create a hearty and flavorful baked pasta masterpiece.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Pasta:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells, cooked and drained

For the Sauce:

• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and fully cooked (about 7-10 minutes).
3. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • The cooked ground beef
   • 1 cup ricotta cheese
   • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
   • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
   • 1 large egg
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
   • 1/2 tsp salt
   • 1/4 tsp black pepper
2. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until the filling is creamy and well combined.

Step 3: Cook and Stuff the Pasta Shells

1. Cook 20 jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Using a spoon, carefully stuff each shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, filling them generously but not overstuffing to avoid tearing.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine:
   • 3 cups marinara sauce
   • 1 cup heavy cream
   • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2. Stir continuously until the sauce is heated through and the cheese has fully melted, creating a creamy, smooth consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of the sauce (about 1 cup) over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
3. Arrange the stuffed shells snugly in the baking dish, open side up.
4. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells, ensuring they are fully covered for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake the Shells

1. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese topping is melted and golden.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a fresh, flavorful finish.
• Serve with:
  • Garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping.
  • A crisp Caesar salad or arugula salad to balance the richness.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells

1. Prevent Shells from Sticking: After draining, toss the shells lightly in olive oil to prevent them from sticking together while you prepare the filling.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the shells al dente, as they will continue to soften while baking in the sauce.
3. Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
4. Freezer-Friendly: Stuffed shells freeze well! Assemble the dish, cover with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 60 minutes, removing the foil for the last 15 minutes.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Calories (per serving): 450-500 kcal (depending on portion size)
• Servings: 4-6

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe combines tender pasta shells, a flavorful beef and ricotta filling, and a luscious creamy marinara sauce into one indulgent meal. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with cheesy goodness. Whether it’s for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t lose this recipe—it’s bound to become a household favorite! 😋