Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the creaminess of ricotta with savory beef and melted cheeses for a perfect filling.
• The rich and velvety marinara cream sauce takes this dish over the top.
• Easy to prepare and bake in one dish, making it great for busy evenings or meal prepping.
• A crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for dinner parties, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Pasta

• 20 jumbo pasta shells, cooked and drained

For the Sauce

• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined.
3. Stuff the Shells: Use a spoon to fill each cooked jumbo pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine marinara sauce, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is heated through and the cheese melts.
5. Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the sauce bubbles and the cheese is golden.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef with cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce for a little kick.
• Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle extra mozzarella or cheddar on top before baking for even more cheesiness.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta shells to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Freezing: Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter version of the dish.

2. How do I prevent the shells from sticking while cooking?

Stir the shells occasionally during boiling and add a touch of olive oil to the water.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. Is it okay to use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! A high-quality store-bought marinara works perfectly in this recipe.

5. What can I serve with stuffed shells?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in two separate dishes.

7. Do I have to use jumbo shells?

Jumbo shells work best, but you can use lasagna noodles and roll the filling for a similar result.

8. How do I know when the dish is done baking?

The sauce should be bubbling, and the cheese on top should be golden.

9. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

Yes, chopped spinach, mushrooms, or Italian sausage can be added for extra flavor.

10. Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

Conclusion

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors and a creamy, cheesy texture. This recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. Serve it at your next gathering or make it a cozy family dinner—it’s guaranteed to impress!