Create Irresistible Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta

Get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food – Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta! This classic Italian dish is a true crowd-pleaser, with its tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a decadent cheese filling that’s sure to have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or hosting a special occasion, these Beef-Stuffed Shells are a surefire way to delight your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta

• 12 large pasta shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Perfect Beef-Stuffed Shells

The key to Beef-Stuffed Shells perfection lies in the attention to detail during the cooking process. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to ensure your dish turns out absolutely mouthwatering.

Cooking the Pasta Shells

Start by boiling the pasta shells according to the package directions until they reach an al dente texture. This is crucial to prevent the shells from becoming too soft and falling apart during the stuffing process. Once cooked, drain the shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

Browning the Ground Beef

In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s nicely browned. Be sure to season the beef with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning to add depth of flavor. Drain any excess fat from the skillet before proceeding.

Mixing the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, the Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix everything together until the filling is well-blended and cohesive.

Stuffing the Shells

Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Be sure to stuff them generously, as the filling is the star of the show!

Assembling the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread 1 cup of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce, then pour the remaining sauce over the shells. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Baking to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving and Enjoying Beef-Stuffed Shells

Once the Beef-Stuffed Shells are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the shells to set. Serve the warm, gooey shells with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Variations on Beef-Stuffed Shells

While the classic Beef-Stuffed Shells recipe is a true delight, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish. Consider experimenting with different proteins, such as ground turkey or chicken, or try mixing in sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also play with the cheese blend, adding a touch of feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.

How to Eat Stuffed Shells

Eating Beef-Stuffed Shells is a delightful experience. Simply use a fork to cut through the shells, making sure to get a bit of the creamy filling in each bite. The combination of the tender pasta, savory beef, and smooth ricotta is a true flavor explosion that will have you reaching for seconds.

What to Put in Stuffed Shell Ricotta

The ricotta filling is the heart and soul of Beef-Stuffed Shells. In addition to the ground beef, the ricotta cheese is blended with mozzarella, Parmesan, and a beaten egg. This creates a rich, creamy, and flavorful filling that perfectly complements the pasta shells.

How Long Can You Keep Stuffed Shells in the Refrigerator?

Leftover Beef-Stuffed Shells can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re heated through.

How Long to Reheat Stuffed Shells at 350 Degrees?

To reheat Beef-Stuffed Shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C), plan for 15-20 minutes. This will ensure the shells are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly once again. Keep an eye on them, as you don’t want the pasta to dry out. If the shells seem to be browning too quickly, you can cover them with foil to retain moisture.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bites with Buttered Rotini
• Creamy “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta

Whether you’re in the mood for classic Italian comfort food or looking to try something new, these related recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Dig in and enjoy!

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