As the smell of garlic and oregano filled the kitchen, I knew this recipe was special. My grandmother’s famous stuffed shells were always the star at family gatherings. This dish brought back those warm memories.
The tender pasta shells were filled with a mix of ground beef and creamy ricotta. It was topped with a rich tomato basil sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s a true Italian classic that will delight your taste buds.
Introduction to Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a beloved Italian stuffed shells pasta dish. It combines tender pasta shells with a creamy filling and tangy tomato sauce. The filling is made of creamy ricotta cheese, savory ground beef, and herbs, making it both satisfying and flavorful.
A Delicious Italian Classic
This comfort food pasta recipe is topped with tomato basil sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you just want a hearty meal. The tender pasta, creamy ricotta filling, and savory ground beef make it indulgent and satisfying.
Tender Pasta Shells Filled with a Creamy, Savory Mixture
This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a true Italian classic. It’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will impress and delight.
Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
The Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta recipe is a hit because of its key ingredients. It includes large pasta shells, lean ground beef, creamy ricotta cheese, and mozzarella. Grated Pecorino Romano adds a special touch. Together, they make a filling that’s both rich and flavorful. It’s topped with a savory tomato basil sauce and aromatic herbs.
Pasta Shells and Ground Beef
The recipe uses 20 jumbo pasta shells. They’re the perfect size for the creamy filling. To add protein and flavor, 1 pound of lean ground beef is used.
Cheeses: Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano
The filling is made with 1 cup of creamy ricotta cheese. It also has 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, with some set aside for the top. Plus, ½ cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese is added. These cheeses make the filling smooth and full of flavor.
Tomato Basil Sauce and Aromatic Herbs
The dish is finished with 2 ½ cups of tomato basil sauce. This adds a bright and tangy taste. It’s enhanced by 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and dried basil. Two cloves of minced garlic are also added.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
Making the perfect Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a fun journey. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make this tasty Italian dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the jumbo pasta shells as the package says, until they’re al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and let cool.
- In a big skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any extra fat.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an extra minute, until it smells good.
- In a big mixing bowl, mix the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, an egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until it’s all mixed up.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the creamy beef mixture. Put them in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Pour the tomato basil sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they’re all covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake the stuffed shells for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot, with fresh basil leaves on top if you like. Enjoy this Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta recipe as a comforting main dish or a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for your next family gathering.
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
The Ultimate Comfort Food
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. It’s an Italian-inspired pasta bake filled with tender jumbo shells. These shells are packed with a creamy mix of ground beef, ricotta, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
The savory flavors and melted cheese on top make it a hit. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Perfect for Family Gatherings and Cozy Dinners
This comfort food pasta dish is loved by all. Its mix of flavors and textures is irresistible. The family-friendly pasta dish has a hearty filling and a tangy tomato sauce.
It’s great for any occasion or when you just want a cozy dinner recipe. This Italian-inspired pasta bake will please everyone at the table.
The secret to this dish’s success is in the ingredients. It uses jumbo pasta shells and 80/20 ground beef for a leaner taste. Plus, it has a lot of ricotta, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano cheeses.
This makes for a comforting and satisfying pasta dish. It’s perfect for any occasion.
Serving and Storage Tips for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a delightful main course. Serve it with a fresh salad and warm, crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. The jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory mix of ground beef, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. This creates a creamy and flavorful filling that will please your taste buds.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete and satisfying meal, consider these side dish ideas with your Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta:
- Parmesan Roasted Green Beans – The crisp and flavorful green beans make a perfect pairing.
- Air Fryer Broccoli – The lightly crisped broccoli florets add a nice contrast to the rich pasta dish.
- Spring Green Salad with Burrata – A fresh, light salad featuring creamy burrata cheese is a refreshing complement.
- Freshly Baked Bread – Warm, crusty garlic bread is the perfect vehicle for sopping up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftover Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the shells in a baking dish and warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Or, microwave individual portions until piping hot. This make-ahead dish is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining, as the stuffed shells can be prepared in advance and baked when ready to serve.
Variations and Substitutions for Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
The traditional Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a beloved Italian dish. But, you can make it your own with different variations and substitutions. Whether you want a vegetarian or gluten-free version, this dish is very versatile.
Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options
For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a plant-based protein. This keeps the dish creamy and savory, perfect for those who don’t eat meat.
Following a gluten-free diet? Use gluten-free pasta shells instead of semolina. This simple change lets everyone enjoy the dish without worrying about gluten.
Adding Extra Flavor with Herbs and Spices
To boost the flavor of the dish, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the filling or sauce. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick of heat. These touches enhance the dish’s flavor and complexity.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pasta Shells | 6 ounces |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Yellow Onion | 1/2 large onion |
| Ground Beef | 1 pound |
| Garlic Powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Ricotta Cheese | 16 ounces |
| Italian Cheese Blend | 2 cups, divided |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup grated |
| Eggs | 1 large egg + 1 large egg yolk |
| Basil Pesto | 1/3 cup |
| Fresh Basil | 3 tablespoons finely chopped |
| Marinara Sauce | 26 ounces, divided |
By trying out these vegetarian, gluten-free, and flavor-enhancing options, you can make the dish your own. It’s a great way to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. It combines tender pasta, a rich filling, and tangy tomato sauce. This makes for a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Chef-approved tips and tricks can help make this comforting dish even better, making it a must-try for anyone who loves Italian cuisine.
Chef Tips for Stuffed Shells Success
To ensure your Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta turns out perfectly, consider these chef-approved tips:
- Cook the pasta shells until just al dente – This will prevent them from becoming too soft and mushy when baked.
- Add a secret ingredient like pesto to the cheese filling – This adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture to the stuffing.
- Use a combination of cheeses – Combining ricotta, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano creates a creamy, flavorful filling.
- Don’t overstuff the shells – Carefully spoon the filling into each shell to avoid them bursting in the oven.
- Top with extra sauce and cheese – This ensures a gooey, cheesy baked dish that’s irresistible.
By following these chef-approved tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta that’s sure to impress your family and friends. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners and special gatherings alike.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty, satisfying meal or looking to add a new Italian classic to your recipe repertoire, this Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a must-try. With its irresistible flavors and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.
Conclusion
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a beloved Italian dish. It combines tender pasta shells with a savory ground beef and cheese filling. A rich tomato basil sauce adds to its flavor.
This hearty dish is great for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. It’s perfect for any time you want a delicious, filling pasta meal.
The cheesy, flavorful filling and melted mozzarella topping make this Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta a hit. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone. Whether it’s for a crowd or a family meal, this conclusion for stuffed shells recipe is a winner. For more on Italian cuisine, check out Italian cuisine on Wikipedia.
The summary of creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells recipe highlights its versatility and taste. Each bite is full of flavor and texture. Serve it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.