When it comes to putting a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal on the table, there are few dishes as comforting as Beef-Stuffed Shells with a Creamy Ricotta Filling. This recipe is a wholesome combination of tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, flavorful ricotta filling, all topped with melted cheese and baked to perfection. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or cooking a cozy family meal, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients and instructions to create this delicious meal. Let’s get started!

Ingredients To Gather

Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to whip up this recipe with ease:

– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup of ricotta cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste

These simple, familiar ingredients come together to create an irresistible dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by Preheating The Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures it’ll be at just the right temperature when it’s time to bake.

Cook the Pasta Shells the Right Way
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the jumbo shells according to the directions on the package, but make sure they’re only cooked to an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain, and set aside after allowing them to cool slightly; this helps them hold up during filling.

Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a medium-sized skillet set to medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully done. Discard any extra grease and stir in the marinara sauce, blending thoroughly. Then remove from heat. This sauce and beef blend will add savory notes to the finished dish.

Combine Ingredients for the Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir until you have a creamy mixture. This will become the indulgent filling inside each pasta shell.

Fill Your Shells
Using a spoon or, if you prefer, a piping bag, generously stuff each cooked shell with the ricotta mixture. Fill each shell carefully, preserving its shape.

Assemble in a Baking Dish
Arrange the filled shells in an even layer inside a baking dish. Spoon the prepared beef and marinara sauce mixture over your stuffed shells, making sure every shell gets a serving of sauce. Top it all off by sprinkling mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that golden, melted layer of cheesy goodness.

Bake to Perfection in Two Steps
Cover the dish with foil, then bake it in the oven for about 25 minutes. After that, take off the foil and bake for around 10 more minutes, or until edges are golden and the cheese topping bubbles irresistibly.

Enjoy Your Handiwork
Once the shells are out of the oven, let them cool briefly before serving. Pair them with a fresh green salad or some crispy garlic bread for a balanced and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Tips for Getting the Best Results

Choose Fresh Ingredients
High-quality marinara sauce and fresh ricotta cheese can elevate the flavors of this dish.

Cook to Al Dente
Take care not to overcook the pasta shells. They’ll soften further during baking, so cooking them al dente is the goal.

Get Creative
Feel free to customize the ricotta filling by adding ingredients like chopped spinach or fresh herbs for a flavor or nutrition boost.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Beef-Stuffed Shells offer the perfect blend of savory, rich, and cheesy goodness in every mouthful, balanced by the textures of juicy beef and creamy ricotta. It’s a versatile recipe you can adjust to your personal tastes and is convenient for meal preppers—it can be assembled ahead of time and baked when you’re ready. This makes it a fantastic option for either busy weeknights or special events.

In Summary

Beef-Stuffed Shells with a Creamy Ricotta Filling is everything you want in a comforting meal: flavorful, hearty, and joy-inducing. With its approachable preparation and impressive taste, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Whether made for family or shared with guests, it’s bound to win praise.

Try it out yourself, and be sure to let us know how it turns out! Drop a comment sharing your thoughts or post your dish on social media—we’d love to see your creations. Enjoy your cooking experience!