Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells: A Hearty Italian Comfort Dish
When it comes to Italian cuisine, stuffed pasta shells are a classic that never goes out of style. This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells recipe combines tender pasta shells with a savory blend of beef, ricotta, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano cheese, all smothered in a rich tomato basil sauce. It’s a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you’re craving something hearty and comforting.
The combination of creamy ricotta and savory beef creates a filling that’s rich and flavorful, while the melted mozzarella adds a layer of gooey goodness. With a preparation that’s simple but yields impressive results, this stuffed shells recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 ½ cups tomato basil sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when your stuffed shells go in. This helps the dish cook evenly and ensures the cheese on top gets perfectly melted and golden.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the 20 large pasta shells and cook them until they’re al dente, meaning they’re tender but still firm to the bite. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shells, as they will continue cooking in the oven. Once done, drain them and set them aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Beef Filling
While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 lb of lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, if necessary. Next, add the 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 tsp of dried oregano, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the beef mixture cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled beef mixture with 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of Pecorino Romano cheese, and the beaten egg. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it’s fully blended and creamy.
Step 4: Stuff the Pasta Shells
In a large baking dish, spread 1 cup of tomato basil sauce evenly across the bottom. This layer of sauce prevents the shells from sticking and adds flavor from the first bite.
Once your shells are cool enough to handle, fill each shell generously with the beef and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in the baking dish in a single layer, making sure they are snug but not too tightly packed.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
After all the shells are stuffed and placed in the dish, pour the remaining 1 ½ cups of tomato basil sauce over the top, making sure to cover all the shells evenly. This ensures the shells don’t dry out during baking. Finally, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for that irresistible gooey, cheesy finish.
Step 6: Bake the Shells
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. The foil helps the dish cook evenly without drying out. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once the stuffed shells are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, cheesy pasta dish with family and friends.
Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Shells
Tip 1: Use Al Dente Pasta
Cooking your pasta shells to al dente is crucial to ensure they hold their shape when stuffed and baked. Overcooking can result in shells that are too soft and may fall apart.
Tip 2: Add Extra Seasoning
For an extra burst of flavor, you can season the tomato basil sauce with additional herbs such as basil or thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Tip 3: Make it Ahead
This dish can easily be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the stuffed shells, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the instructions for baking, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chilled dish.
Tip 4: Customize the Filling
Feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste. You can add spinach for a bit of greenery, or swap the beef for Italian sausage or ground turkey for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if you prefer a lighter filling. Just be sure to blend it well for a smoother texture.
Q: Can I freeze stuffed shells?
A: Absolutely! To freeze, prepare the stuffed shells as directed, but instead of baking, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake from frozen at 375°F for about 45-50 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover stuffed shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and substituting it with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a delicious and hearty vegetarian option.
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food, combining the heartiness of beef with the creaminess of ricotta cheese and the tanginess of tomato basil sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. With these easy steps, tips, and variations, you’ll master this classic Italian dish in no time.