Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
Beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling is a comforting, Italian-inspired dish made with jumbo pasta shells, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy filling. Baked to perfection with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, this hearty meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce. Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture and arrange them in a baking dish.
- Spoon the beef and marinara sauce mixture over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the dish and refrigerate overnight before baking.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze unbaked shells for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.
- Customization: Swap beef with turkey or sausage, add veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or make it spicier with red pepper flakes.
