Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
A comforting dish featuring jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a rich blend of creamy ricotta, savory ground beef, and topped with marinara and melted cheese.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheeses
- 12 pieces jumbo pasta shells These plump, tender cases cradle delicious fillings like a warm hug.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese Creamy and smooth, adding a luxurious texture.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Melting into an ooey-gooey delight.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a touch of nutty, rich flavor.
Filling and Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef Rich and hearty, it provides the perfect savory base.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Tangy and fresh, tying all the flavors together.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic and earthy, enhancing the savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A fragrant blend of herbs to elevate the dish.
- 1 piece egg Helping to bind the filling while adding richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper Essential for balance and flavor highlighting.
Garnish
- Fresh basil for garnish Fresh basil A pop of color and scent to finish off the dish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet, cooking for an additional two minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
Combining Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until creamy.
- Gently fold in the cooked beef mixture until well blended.
Assembly
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta-beef mixture and place them in the dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Baking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Use high-quality cheese and premium ground beef for the best flavor. Don’t rush the baking; cover initially and uncover for a golden crust.