Imagine the comforting aroma of a bubbling Italian classic filling your kitchen, promising a meal that warms both the heart and soul. Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the epitome of home-cooked perfection, combining the rich, savory flavors of seasoned beef with the velvety smoothness of ricotta cheese. Each tender pasta shell cradles a delicious filling, while a luscious tomato basil sauce blankets the dish in a tangy embrace.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or an indulgent meal for yourself, this recipe offers simplicity and elegance in every bite. The gooey layer of melted mozzarella adds the finishing touch, ensuring that every forkful is a cheesy, satisfying delight. This dish transcends ordinary meals, inviting you to savor the essence of Italian cuisine right in your own home.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a masterpiece. Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is more than a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy to your table and warmth to your kitchen. Let’s dive into this comforting culinary delight!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Comfort Food: A harmonious blend of creamy ricotta, hearty beef, and tangy tomato sauce creates the ultimate cozy dish.
- Family-Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will adore.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to suit various dietary preferences or ingredients on hand.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
- Freezer-Friendly: Prepare in advance and enjoy an effortless, delicious meal later.
Ingredients Overview
- Large Pasta Shells: The ideal vessel for holding the creamy, savory filling.
- Lean Ground Beef: A hearty and flavorful protein base.
- Ricotta Cheese: Brings a creamy, velvety texture to the filling.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Pecorino Romano: Adds a salty, nutty depth to the filling.
- Tomato Basil Sauce: A tangy, rich base that ties all the flavors together.
- Garlic and Oregano: Classic Italian aromatics for an irresistible depth of flavor.
- Egg: Binds the filling ingredients seamlessly.
- Fresh Parsley: A vibrant garnish to enhance both flavor and presentation.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 20 large pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and lay them on a tray to cool.
Step 2: Preparing the Beef Mixture
In a skillet, brown 1 lb of lean ground beef over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tsp of dried oregano, cooking until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 3: Making the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano, 1 beaten egg, and salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Assembling the Dish
Spread 1 cup of tomato basil sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill each pasta shell generously with the beef and cheese mixture. Arrange them snugly in the baking dish, open side up. Pour the remaining 1½ cups of tomato basil sauce over the shells. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Baking
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnishing and Serving
Let the dish cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Prevent overcooking by slightly undercooking the shells before baking.
- Cool the Beef Mixture: Avoid curdling the filling by letting the beef cool before mixing with the cheeses and egg.
- Choose Quality Cheese: High-quality ricotta and Pecorino Romano elevate the dish’s flavor.
- Generous Sauce Coverage: Prevent dry shells by ensuring they’re well-coated with sauce.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian: Substitute beef with sautéed spinach and mushrooms for a meatless version.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for extra heat.
- Cheese Swap: Replace Pecorino Romano with Parmesan or Asiago for a unique flavor.
- Homemade Sauce: Elevate the dish by using your favorite homemade marinara sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different protein? Yes, ground turkey or chicken makes an excellent lean alternative.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the dish a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Can stuffed shells be frozen? Definitely! Freeze the dish before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until warmed through.
- Can I add extra vegetables? Certainly! Diced zucchini or spinach can be added to the beef mixture for added nutrients.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven until warm or microwave individual portions for convenience.
Conclusion
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the perfect balance of cheesy, savory, and comforting flavors. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a special occasion, or a quiet evening at home, this dish never fails to delight. With its simple steps and versatile variations, it’s a recipe that suits both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
Why not bring a touch of Italy to your dinner table? Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see how it quickly becomes a favorite in your household. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest at Ava Foodie for more delightful recipes!
