Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
A comforting dish filled with creamy ricotta and savory ground beef, perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 large large pasta shells (conchiglioni) Perfect for holding all the rich filling.
- 1 lb ground beef Juicy and savory dimension to every bite.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese Infused with a creamy texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Deliciously melty topping.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Provides an extra kick of flavor.
- 1 large egg Acts as a binding agent for the stuffing.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds an aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Essential herb complementing the beef.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Enhances overall taste.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Envelops the shells with rich, tangy goodness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Used in cooking the beef.
- to taste Fresh basil leaves for garnish Lends a vibrant touch of color and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package directions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Cook ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Drain excess fat and stir in minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Fold in the cooled beef mixture until combined.
- Gently stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta and beef mixture and arrange tightly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, covering completely. Optional: sprinkle extra mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Notes
You can make the filling in advance or use store-bought marinara sauce. Experiment with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor, or use red pepper flakes for spice. For a vegetarian option, substitute beef with sautéed vegetables or lentils.