When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s a dish that fills the house with irresistible aromas and warms the heart with every bite. Creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells pasta does just that. Imagine tender pasta shells filled with a rich blend of ricotta cheese, savory beef, and Italian herbs, all baked to perfection in a luscious marinara sauce topped with melty cheese. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and hearty. It combines the indulgence of ricotta cheese with the satisfying richness of ground beef, all encased in tender jumbo pasta shells. It’s a showstopper on the dinner table but surprisingly easy to make.

Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Here’s everything you need to bring this delicious recipe to life:

• Jumbo pasta shells: 20–24 shells (cook a few extra in case of breakage)
• Ground beef: 1 pound, preferably lean
• Ricotta cheese: 1 1/2 cups
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, divided
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup
• Egg: 1 large, beaten
• Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
• Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
• Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt and pepper: To taste
• Marinara sauce: 3 cups, store-bought or homemade
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon for cooking

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Stuffed Shells

1. Prepare the Pasta Shells

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions).
• Drain the shells, rinse them under cold water, and set them aside to cool. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Beef Filling

• Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• Brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
• Once fully cooked, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Make the Ricotta Mixture

• In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Stir until well incorporated. Add the cooled beef to the mixture and stir again.

4. Assemble the Stuffed Shells

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Fill each pasta shell with about 2 tablespoons of the ricotta-beef mixture and place them in the baking dish.
• Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re evenly covered.

5. Add the Finishing Touches

• Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the sauce-covered shells.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil, making sure the foil doesn’t touch the cheese.

6. Bake to Perfection

• Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells Pasta

1. Cook Extra Shells: Some shells may break during cooking, so always cook a few more than you need.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooking the shells ensures they don’t tear when filling.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or basil adds a vibrant flavor to the filling.
4. Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and bake it fresh before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on six servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	470
Protein	27g
Carbohydrates	32g
Fat	24g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	820mg

Serving Suggestions

Pair creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells pasta with these side dishes for a complete Italian-inspired meal:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the extra marinara sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp, tangy salad balances the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add color and nutrition with roasted zucchini or bell peppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Cottage cheese or mascarpone can replace ricotta for a slightly different texture and flavor.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish but skip baking. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 1 hour.

4. What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
You can use a creamy Alfredo sauce or even a pink sauce for a fun twist.

5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Of course! Replace the beef with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative.

6. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot complements the flavors beautifully.

Your Call to Action

Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells pasta is a surefire way to impress your family or guests with minimal effort. Head to your kitchen and let this delicious dish become a new household favorite.

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