Description
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining. This recipe features jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a rich ricotta, mozzarella, and beef filling, smothered in a creamy marinara sauce. It’s indulgent, easy to make, and customizable for various tastes and dietary needs.
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
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Prepare the Filling: Combine cooked beef, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until well incorporated.
- Stuff the Shells: Use a spoon to fill each cooked shell with the prepared mixture.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, mix marinara sauce, heavy cream, and Parmesan until smooth and warmed through.
- Assemble the Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells, then pour the remaining sauce over them.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until bubbling and golden.
Notes
Make ahead and refrigerate unbaked shells for up to 24 hours.
For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half.
Freeze assembled shells unbaked and cook from frozen with additional bake time.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
