Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe

Are you searching for a dish that truly embodies comfort and flavor? When it comes to heartwarming meals that satisfy the soul, few things rival the beloved Pasta Bake. And within that beloved category, Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells stand out as a true champion. This recipe promises a luxurious experience for your taste buds, combining tender jumbo pasta shells generously filled with a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, impossibly creamy ricotta cheese, and fragrant Italian herbs, all bathed in a rich, luscious tomato sauce and baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that brings smiles to the table, perfect for busy weeknights, festive family gatherings, or simply a cozy night in by the fire. Get ready to make this your go-to comfort food classic!

Why You’ll Love This Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Recipe

This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine perfectly cooked jumbo shells, each one a vessel of delightful flavor, holding a rich, savory mixture of seasoned ground beef and creamy ricotta cheese. The aroma alone is enough to make your stomach rumble! What sets these stuffed shells apart is the balance of textures and tastes: the al dente pasta, the hearty beef, the cool, creamy ricotta, all harmonizing with the bright, tangy tomato sauce. It’s a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to assemble, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. This recipe is designed to be a crowd-pleaser, a guaranteed hit for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve up a dose of pure happiness. Plus, its make-ahead potential means less stress on busy days. Ready to elevate your pasta game?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success. For this Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells recipe, we’re focusing on simple, flavorful components that come together beautifully. Don’t be afraid to adjust seasonings to your personal preference!

• 1 box (12 oz) Jumbo Pasta Shells: These are your edible cradles, perfect for holding all that delicious filling. Look for brands known for their sturdy texture.
• 1 lb Ground Beef (80/20 recommended): The heart of our savory filling. 80/20 offers a great balance of flavor and richness. Substitution: Ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• 15 oz Ricotta Cheese (whole milk recommended): For that signature creamy, luxurious texture. Whole milk ricotta offers the best richness. Substitution: Part-skim ricotta for a lighter option, or even cottage cheese (drained very well) for a textural variation.
• 1 Large Egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder to keep your creamy filling together.
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor to the filling.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential for that pungent, aromatic base.
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning: A quick way to infuse classic Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. Substitution: A mix of dried oregano, basil, and a pinch of thyme.
• 1/2 tsp Salt: To enhance all the flavors.
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best for a brighter flavor.
• 1 jar (24 oz) Marinara Sauce: Your base sauce. Choose a good quality sauce with a bright, robust tomato flavor. Substitution: Homemade marinara or a simple crushed tomato sauce seasoned to your liking.
• 1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: For topping and that characteristic gooey, melted cheese pull.
• Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Perfectly Timed Pasta Perfection

Compare this to the average stuffed shells recipe, which often requires closer to 30-40 minutes of prep due to more elaborate fillings or sauces from scratch. Our streamlined approach ensures you can get this comforting meal on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight treat!

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your Stuffed Shells

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a truly memorable dish of Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells.

1. Cook the Jumbo Shells

First, let’s get those shells ready to be filled. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the jumbo pasta shells, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking. Cook them according to the package directions until they are al dente – meaning they have a slight bite and are pliable but not mushy. This is crucial because they will continue to cook in the oven. Once cooked, drain them gently in a colander. You can run them under cool water for a moment to stop the cooking process and make them easier to handle. Set them aside, making sure they don’t clump together.

2. Prepare the Savory Beef Filling

Now, for the heart of our dish! In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess grease – this is a key step for a cleaner flavor and texture. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for another minute until fragrant. This awakens the garlic’s aromatic qualities. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly. In a medium bowl, combine the slightly cooled beef and garlic mixture with the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until well combined. You want a creamy, homogenous filling that’s ready to be stuffed.

3. Assemble Your Masterpiece

This is where the magic starts to take shape! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread about half of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This creates a delicious bed for your shells and prevents them from sticking. Now, take each cooked jumbo shell and carefully stuff it with a generous portion of the ricotta and beef filling. You can use a spoon or your fingers for this (clean hands are best!). Arrange the filled shells in a single layer over the marinara sauce in the baking dish, tucking them in snugly but not overcrowding them. Once all the shells are filled and arranged, pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well coated. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. This will melt into a beautiful, bubbly golden crust.

4. Bake to Glorious Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown. If you want an extra browned top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching it very carefully to prevent burning. Once out of the oven, let the stuffed shells rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes them easier to serve without falling apart. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired for a burst of freshness and color.

Nutritional Highlights

While specific nutritional values can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes, a typical serving of Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells offers:

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving
• Protein: High, from ground beef and cheese
• Carbohydrates: From pasta and sauce
• Fat: Moderate, especially from ricotta and mozzarella.

Note: This is an estimation. For precise nutrition, please calculate based on your specific ingredients.

Healthier Twists on a Classic

Love the idea of stuffed shells but looking for a lighter take? You can easily make delicious, healthier swaps without sacrificing flavor:

• Leaner Protein: Opt for lean ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based crumble instead of traditional ground beef.
• Whole Wheat Shells: Use whole wheat jumbo shells for added fiber.
• Reduced-Fat Cheese: Switch to part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheeses to lower fat content.
• More Veggies: Finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be mixed into the beef and ricotta filling for added nutrients and fiber.
• Lighter Sauce: Use a marinara sauce packed with vegetables or a homemade sauce with less added sugar and oil.

Elevate Your Serving Game

These Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are a meal in themselves, but here are some ideas to complete your dining experience:

• Green Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Essential for soaking up any extra delicious sauce!
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and complement the richness of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into that extra sauce.

Don’t Make These Common Mistakes!

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells turn out perfectly every time:

• Overcooking the Shells: Remember they cook further in the oven! Aim for al dente.
• Dry Filling: Ensure you have enough ricotta and the egg is well incorporated. Don’t skip the egg!
• Undersalting: Pasta water and the filling need adequate salt to bring out the best flavors.
• Sauce Issues: Not enough sauce can lead to dry shells. Make sure to coat them well on the bottom and top.
• Crowding the Pan: Avoid packing the shells too tightly; they need a little breathing room to cook evenly.

Storing Your Stuffed Shells Symphony

Leftovers are a delicious bonus! Once cooled, store any remaining stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They reheat beautifully in the oven (covered with foil at 350°F/175°C until heated through) or in the microwave. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked and cooled stuffed shells for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

A Hearty Embrace of Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

There you have it – a recipe for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s a dish that perfectly balances rich, savory flavors with comforting textures, making every bite a delightful experience. From the perfectly cooked al dente shells to the creamy, seasoned beef and ricotta filling, all enveloped in a velvety tomato sauce, this recipe delivers pure culinary joy. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or planning a special meal, these stuffed shells are guaranteed to impress. Don’t wait – gather your ingredients and bring this magnificent comfort food to your table tonight! Let us know how it turns out in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

***Will pre-cooked pasta work for stuffed shells?***

While it’s best to cook jumbo shells until al dente just before stuffing, you can use pre-cooked pasta sheets torn into appropriate sizes or even baked ziti cut into squares if you can’t find jumbo shells. However, be cautious with fully cooked shells as they might become too soft when baked.

***Can I make the beef and ricotta filling ahead of time?***

Yes! You can prepare the beef and ricotta filling up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You might need to stir it a bit before stuffing if it thickens considerably.

***What kind of cheese is best for stuffed shells?***

For the filling, whole milk ricotta offers the creamiest texture. For topping, mozzarella provides that classic melty, cheesy pull. Parmesan is also excellent for adding a salty, nutty depth to both the filling and as a garnish.

***Can I make this dish vegetarian?***

Absolutely! Omit the ground beef and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or a plant-based ground substitute to the ricotta mixture. You can also use a flavorful vegetable marinara sauce.

***My shells are sticking together. What did I do wrong?***

This usually happens if the shells are overcooked, you didn’t stir them enough while boiling, or they were left to sit for too long after draining without a bit of oil or cool water. Ensure they are cooked al dente and spread them out gently after draining.

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe

---

• Author: Chef Emy

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover the ultimate comfort food with thisCreamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pastarecipe! Made with jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich mixture of seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta cheese, and Italian herbs, all baked to perfection in a luscious tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 20–25jumbo pasta shells
• 1lb ground beef
• 1 cupricotta cheese
• 1 cupshredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cupgrated Parmesan cheese
• 1egg
• 2 cupsmarinara sauce
• 1 tablespoonItalian seasoning
• 2cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

---

Instructions

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or sausage for beef if preferred.
Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms for an extra veggie boost.
Use homemade marinara for an even richer flavor.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5