Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling: A Hearty Italian Comfort Dish

Craving a delicious Italian-inspired meal that’s both hearty and satisfying? These Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With tender pasta shells filled with a rich blend of ground beef, ricotta cheese, and savory herbs, this dish is a flavorful and creamy delight that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

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

Rich and Creamy Flavor: The ricotta and Parmesan cheeses bring a creamy texture, while the beef adds a savory, satisfying taste.
Easy to Make: Despite its impressive look, this dish is simple to prepare and can even be made ahead of time.
Comforting and Filling: Perfect for cozy evenings, this dish is ideal comfort food.

Ingredients for Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

1 box jumbo pasta shells (about 20-24 shells)
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions for Making Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta

1. Prepare the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo shells and cook until just tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Cook the Beef Filling

In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Ricotta Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, and Italian seasoning. Add the cooked beef mixture to the bowl and stir to combine evenly.

4. Stuff the Shells

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Using a spoon, stuff each shell with a generous amount of the beef and ricotta mixture and place the shells in the baking dish in a single layer.

5. Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesy finish.

6. Bake the Shells

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the shells rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving.

Quick Facts

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Tips for the Best Beef-Stuffed Shells

Make Ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if chilled.
Cheese Variations: For added flavor, try mixing in some grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese with the filling.
Sauce Choice: While marinara sauce is classic, you can also use a meat sauce or a creamy tomato sauce for a different twist.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish provides a good balance of protein from the beef and cheese, and you can pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also customizable—substitute ground turkey for a leaner option or add some chopped spinach to the filling for extra nutrients.

Conclusion

Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a comforting, crowd-pleasing Italian-inspired dish that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. With savory beef, creamy ricotta, and flavorful herbs in every bite, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Try this recipe and enjoy a rich, cheesy meal that everyone will love!

Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling