Go Back
–+ servings
Merry

Best Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Recipe – Easy Comfort Food

Creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells pasta is a rich, cheesy, and hearty Italian-inspired dish perfect for any occasion. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a flavorful blend of ricotta, ground beef, and seasonings, then baked in marinara sauce with gooey melted cheese on top. This comforting meal will have everyone asking for seconds!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Jumbo pasta shells 20–24 pieces
  • 1 pound ground beef preferably lean
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente (about 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions). Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside, drizzling with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Prepare the Filling
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, beaten egg, parsley, garlic powder, and the cooked beef. Mix until fully combined.
  6. Assemble the Shells
  7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  8. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  9. Fill each pasta shell with 2 tablespoons of the ricotta-beef mixture and arrange them in the dish, open side up.
  10. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering them evenly.
  11. Add Cheese and Bake
  12. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, ensuring the foil doesn’t touch the cheese.
  13. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  14. Serve and Enjoy
  15. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a vibrant touch.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the dish a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake fresh before serving.
  • Freezing Instructions: Assemble the shells, skip the baking, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 1 hour.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative.
  • Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of sauce to keep it moist.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!