Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

Tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy, savory mixture of ground beef and ricotta cheese, all brought together with a luscious marinara sauce for a comforting family meal.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Total Time 50

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 600

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Pasta and Sauce

12 pieces jumbo pasta shells Perfect for holding delicious fillings.
2 cups marinara sauce Enhances the flavor of the stuffed shells.

Meat and Cheese Filling

1 pound ground beef Adds a hearty, rich depth to the dish.
1 cup ricotta cheese Creates a luscious filling.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Provides that perfect cheese stretch.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds complexity and richness.
1 piece egg Binds the mixture together.

Seasonings

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Accentuates the flavors.
1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds savory depth.
to taste salt and pepper Essential seasonings for flavor.

Garnish

to taste Fresh basil Adds bright, herbal freshness.

Method

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain gently and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until perfectly browned. Drain fat and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Assembly

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta-beef mixture and place them in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top 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 the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving

Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Notes

For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken and whole wheat pasta. If preparing ahead, stuff the shells and refrigerate before baking.