Imagine diving into a plate of Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta: the first forkful reveals a tender pasta shell, generously stuffed with a savory beef and ricotta filling, all resting in a rich, melty cheese sauce. It’s a meal that checks all the boxes for comfort food—warm, hearty, and bursting with flavors! I fondly remember the first time I made this dish for a family gathering. My relatives were piling their plates high, each one convinced that the “secret” to my cooking was something extravagant when in reality, it was just a delightful blend of love and quality ingredients. This recipe is as straightforward as it is delicious, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. If you enjoyed my popular Creamy Pesto Pasta, this dish is sure to become another family favorite!

What is Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta?

So, what in the world are Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta? Well, picture this: large pasta shells stuffed with a seasoned beef and ricotta mixture, swimming in a luscious sauce that beckons to be savored. You might wonder if the name is too fancy for a dish that’s essentially comfort food at its best. And let’s be honest, ‘stuffed shells’ sounds a bit like an extravagant sea creature, right? But rest assured, the only ocean involved is the wave of flavor you’ll experience with each bite. It’s true what they say: the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this dish is the ultimate pathway! Why not gather your family for a cozy dinner and treat them to this delicious meal that’s bound to spark joy?

Why You’ll Love This Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta

First and foremost, the star of this recipe is undoubtedly the tender, stuffed shells filled with a well-seasoned blend of ground beef and ricotta. The complexity of flavors stands out without being overwhelming. But did I mention the cost-saving benefits of cooking at home? Not only is this dish economical, but it also provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy quality family time over a delicious, home-cooked meal. And let’s not forget the delightful toppings; a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of mozzarella adds the finishing touch that takes it to the next level! If you’ve indulged in my Cheesy Garlic Bread, this recipe will be an equally satisfying addition to your collection. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

How to Make Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta

Quick Overview

Creating Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta is an easy and satisfying process. The delightful mix of textures—from the soft, chewy pasta to the creamy ricotta blend and savory beef—will have you hooked from the first bite. The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 1 hour, making it a perfect option for family dinners or weekend gatherings.

Key Ingredients for Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make this irresistible dish:

20 jumbo pasta shells (uncooked)
1 lb ground beef (Halal, of course)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, plus more for garnish)
1 egg (lightly beaten)
2 cups marinara sauce (ensure it’s halal)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, but leave them slightly undercooked as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and the beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.
Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a spoonful of the beef filling and stuff each shell generously.
Assemble the Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, then cover them with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle any reserved mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Let the dish cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve warm and watch it disappear!

Top Tips for Perfecting Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta

Substitutions: If you have dietary restrictions, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken with Halal options, or make it vegetarian by using sautéed vegetables or mushrooms in place of meat.
Timing: Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time to keep the cooking process smooth. You can even prepare the filling a day before!
Common Mistakes: Avoid overcooking the pasta shells; they should be firm enough to hold the filling without breaking.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, but just in case), store the Beef-Stuffed Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. For reheating, place the shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This ensures that your creamy ricotta filling remains rich and the cheese melts beautifully, just like when you first made it.

Now that you’re equipped with a delicious recipe and helpful tips, why not gather your loved ones and treat them to a comforting yet simple meal? You’re bound to create beautiful memories around the dinner table with this delightful dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta

A comforting dish of jumbo pasta shells filled with a savory beef and ricotta mixture, covered in a rich cheese sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Shells

20 pieces jumbo pasta shells uncooked
1 lb ground beef Halal
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese plus extra for topping
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped, plus more for garnish
1 piece egg lightly beaten
2 cups marinara sauce ensure it's halal
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Method

Preparation

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions, but leave them slightly undercooked as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. In a bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and the beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.

Assembly

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a spoonful of the beef filling and stuff each shell generously.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, then cover them with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle any reserved mozzarella cheese on top.

Baking

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serving

Let the dish cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

Avoid overcooking the pasta shells; they should be firm enough to hold the filling without breaking. Consider using ground turkey or chicken as a substitute for beef, or make it vegetarian with sautéed vegetables or mushrooms.

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