Introduction
Italian cuisine is known for its comforting and flavorful dishes, and beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling are no exception. This dish combines tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich and cheesy ricotta mixture, topped with a savory beef sauce and baked to perfection. It’s a family-friendly meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Italian flavors or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
To create the perfect beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling, you’ll need the following ingredients:
A. Pasta
- 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
B. Beef Filling
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)
C. Creamy Ricotta Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
D. Additional Toppings
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
A. Prepare the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
B. Make the Beef Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
C. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, egg, and chopped parsley.
- Stir until well combined and smooth.
D. Stuff the Shells
- Take a cooked pasta shell and spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture inside.
- Repeat the process until all shells are filled.
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish in a single layer.
- Spoon the beef sauce over the top of the shells.
E. Assemble and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sprinkle the additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the shells.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Beef-stuffed shells pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the richness of the pasta.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with balsamic dressing balances out the flavors.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or roasted bell peppers add a nutritious touch.
- Red Wine: A glass of Italian red wine enhances the depth of flavors in the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, place the shells in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on a microwave-safe plate for 2-3 minutes.
- Freezer to Oven: If frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes until fully heated.
Conclusion
Beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling are a comforting and hearty meal that brings together classic Italian flavors in an easy-to-make dish. The combination of tender pasta, rich beef sauce, and creamy ricotta filling makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Feel free to experiment by adding spinach, mushrooms, or different cheeses to customize the flavor. Enjoy your homemade beef-stuffed shells and savor every bite!
