Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
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Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is the ultimate comfort food that brings a taste of Italy right to your dinner table. This hearty dish features savory ground beef nestled in tender jumbo pasta shells, all enveloped in a rich and creamy ricotta filling. Topped with gooey melted mozzarella and baked in a luscious marinara sauce, it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With its simplicity and satisfaction, this dish is sure to become a timeless favorite!
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and get ready for some deliciousness!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, letting them cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Beef Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 4: Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Ricotta
Gently stir the cooled beef mixture into the ricotta filling, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each cooked shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, placing them snugly in the dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the extra mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors!
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 23g
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a dish that perfectly balances hearty flavors and comforting textures. The jumbo pasta shells serve as the ideal vessel for the savory beef and creamy ricotta filling. Each shell holds a generous amount of stuffing, ensuring every bite is satisfying. The smooth ricotta offers a mild, fresh taste that pairs beautifully with the rich, seasoned ground beef. And let’s not forget the marinara sauce—it ties everything together with its tangy, tomato-based goodness, while the melted mozzarella provides that irresistible cheesy finish.
The History of Stuffed Pasta
Stuffed pasta has a rich history in Italian cuisine. Italy boasts a wide variety of pasta, and filling those pasta shells has long been a way to elevate the dish. While ravioli often steals the spotlight, jumbo pasta shells (conchiglie) have become a favorite for stuffing with flavorful fillings like ricotta, spinach, and meat. Beef-stuffed shells are a delicious variation that combines the robust flavor of ground beef with the creamy texture of ricotta, making it a filling meal perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
Benefits of Making Beef-Stuffed Shells at Home
Creating Beef-Stuffed Shells from scratch allows you to control the quality of your ingredients, ensuring a fresh and wholesome meal. Using high-quality ricotta, lean ground beef, and fresh herbs can transform this dish into something truly special. Plus, making it at home means you can adjust the seasonings to match your taste—add more garlic for a punch, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a kick! And don’t worry if you’re new to cooking; this dish is straightforward enough for anyone to master.
Perfect Pairings
While Beef-Stuffed Shells are a complete meal on their own, you can enhance your dining experience with these delightful side dishes:
- Salads: A fresh salad, like a classic Caesar or a simple mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette, provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stuffed shells.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce, making it a beloved side dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair your meal with roasted veggies—think broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus—for a healthy, flavorful addition that balances the savory pasta.
- Wine: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, complements the rich, cheesy pasta beautifully, enhancing the overall experience.
Healthier Modifications
If you’re looking to lighten up this delicious dish, consider these modifications:
- Lean Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) or swap in ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Low-Fat Ricotta: Opt for part-skim or low-fat ricotta cheese to reduce calories and fat while keeping that creamy texture intact.
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Choose whole wheat or gluten-free jumbo pasta shells for added fiber and nutrition.
- Add Veggies: Mix in finely chopped vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the beef filling for extra vitamins and minerals.
Conclusion
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a delightful balance of savory and creamy flavors, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Its versatility allows for endless customization, and the option to prepare it ahead of time makes it a convenient choice for busy days.
So gather your loved ones, and dig into this comforting classic that never goes out of style. Your taste buds will thank you! 🍝✨
