Discover the decadence of Beef & Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce, a comforting pasta dish that everyone will rave about! This recipe combines hearty beef with the richness of ricotta cheese, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce, creating a family-friendly meal that is both satisfying and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in Every Bite: This dish encapsulates the essence of home-cooked comfort food.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of beef and ricotta creates a deliciously rich and satisfying filling.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These stuffed shells can easily be made ahead of time and stored for later.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve these shells, and watch your guests’ eyes light up at the beautiful dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting delightful Beef & Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce. Each component plays a unique role in enhancing the flavors and textures, making this dish truly irresistible.
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: These large shells are perfect for holding all the delicious filling.
- Ground Beef: Adds a hearty protein and rich flavor to the dish.
- Ricotta Cheese: Provides a creamy texture and balances the savory flavors of the beef.
- Shredded Mozzarella: Melts perfectly on top, adding a delightful cheesy finish.
- Marinara Sauce: A flavorful base that envelops the shells, enhancing their taste.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this cheese adds an extra layer of richness.
- Garlic: Brings a robust flavor that enriches the filling and sauce.
- Fresh Basil: Adds a hint of freshness and color to the dish.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the beef and garlic, contributing to the overall flavor.
Variations for Beef & Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your dietary needs or personal preferences.
- Beef Alternatives: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a healthier twist.
- Vegetable Filling: Mix in sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta shells and sauces to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce for those who love a little heat.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with a mix of mozzarella, gouda, or cheddar for unique flavor combinations.
How to Make Beef & Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and remove from heat. In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Stuff the Shells
Spoon the beef and ricotta mixture into each jumbo shell until generously filled. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in a baking dish.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them completely. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Pro Tips for Making Beef & Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce
- Don’t Overfill: Leave a little room in the shells to prevent overflow while baking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese can elevate the flavor of your dish.
- Let the Shells Cool: Allow your stuffed shells to cool slightly before serving for better handling.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try Alfredo or pesto instead of marinara for a twist on flavors.
- Add a Crunch: Top with breadcrumbs before baking for an extra crunchy texture.
How to Serve Beef & Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley adds a beautiful pop of color and freshness to this dish.
Side Dishes
Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to create the perfect meal pairing that balances the richness of the pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the shells on a large platter with the sauce drizzled artistically around the edges and a garnish of basil on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring you can enjoy this dish again later.
Freezing
The stuffed shells can be made ahead of time and frozen. Simply assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Reheating
To reheat, place the shells back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, depending on the size of your portion.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the jumbo shells with cannelloni or even manicotti, as long as you adjust the cooking time.
Is there a vegetarian option?
Of course! You can fill the shells with sautéed vegetables, ricotta, and spinach for a delightful vegetarian meal.
What can I serve with this dish?
Pair with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dinner experience.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and ricotta filling a day in advance, keeping it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to stuff the shells.
How spicy is this dish?
The dish itself is mild, but you can adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the filling or sauce.
Final Thoughts
Ready to dive into a plate of Beef & Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce? This dish is sure to become a family favorite, filling your home with wonderful aromas and smiles all around. Give it a try, and let the creamy goodness sweep you off your feet!
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Beef & Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
Discover the decadence of Beef & Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce, a comforting pasta dish that combines hearty beef with the richness of ricotta cheese, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for family meals, this recipe is easy to prepare and guarantees satisfaction.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Shells:
- 12 Large Jumbo Pasta Shells
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 15 oz Ricotta Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups Shredded Mozzarella
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups Marinara Sauce
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh Basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and remove from heat. In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the Shells: Spoon the beef and ricotta mixture into each jumbo shell until generously filled. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in a baking dish.
- Add the Sauce: Pour marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, covering them completely. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Don’t Overfill: Leave a little room in the shells to prevent overflow while baking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese can elevate the flavor of your dish.
- Let the Shells Cool: Allow your stuffed shells to cool slightly before serving for better handling.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try Alfredo or pesto instead of marinara for a twist on flavors.
- Add a Crunch: Top with breadcrumbs before baking for an extra crunchy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg