Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of savory ground beef and creamy cheeses makes for a delicious filling that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and cooled beef. Mix well until fully incorporated.
6. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, and place them in a baking dish.
7. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to let the cheese brown slightly.
9. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 and has a total time of 50 minutes, including 20 minutes of preparation and 30 minutes of cooking.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or a mix of vegetables.
• Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as alternatives.
2. What if I don’t have jumbo shells?
   You can use manicotti or any large pasta shape suitable for stuffing.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   Yes, assemble it a day ahead and bake when ready to serve.
4. What should I serve with stuffed shells?
   A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.
5. How do I know when the dish is done?
   The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden when done.
6. Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
   Yes, freeze them before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
7. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! Spinach or bell peppers can be added to the filling for extra nutrition.
8. What kind of marinara sauce works best?
   Any store-bought or homemade marinara sauce will work, depending on your taste preference.
9. How can I prevent the shells from sticking together?
   Toss the cooked shells in a little olive oil after draining to keep them separate.
10. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
    Use an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Conclusion

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy any appetite. Easy to prepare and customizable, they make for a perfect meal any night of the week. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends!

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