Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
A delightful Italian dish made with creamy ricotta, savory ground beef, and hearty pasta shells, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 12 large pasta shells (conchiglioni) These sturdy shells are perfect for holding a generous amount of filling.
- 1 lb ground beef Juicy and flavorful, it forms the heart of the stuffing.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese Creamy and rich, adds a luxurious texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully to create that gooey effect.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nutty, salty kick.
- 1 large egg Helps bind the filling together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Brings Italian flair.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil Adds a refreshing, herbaceous note.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper A dash of warmth and spice.
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce The perfect sauce for drenching those stuffed shells.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Used for cooking the beef.
For Garnish
- to taste fresh basil leaves Optional, adds a touch of color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the pasta shells and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up, about 7-8 minutes.
- Mix in minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Let cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Fold in the cooked beef mixture.
- Stuff each cooled pasta shell with the ricotta and beef mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, removing foil last 5 minutes to brown cheese.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, add diced onions or bell peppers to the beef. Prepare the stuffing a day ahead for convenience. Add red pepper flakes for spice.