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Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease and let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Shells
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Stuff each cooked pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the beef and ricotta filling. Place the stuffed shells seam-side up in the baking dish.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring each one is coated. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Shells: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures they hold their shape during baking.
- Use Quality Marinara: A rich, flavorful sauce makes all the difference. Opt for homemade or a high-quality store-bought version.
- Customize the Filling: Add cooked spinach, mushrooms, or even a bit of crumbled sausage for variety.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: For extra decadence, sprinkle some grated Asiago or Romano cheese on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Beef-Stuffed Shells pair wonderfully with:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up the marinara sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh Caesar or mixed greens salad balances the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Veggies: Roasted broccoli or sautéed zucchini make excellent sides.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Assemble the dish (without baking) and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling combines all the best aspects of Italian comfort food into one dish. The creamy, savory filling, tender pasta shells, and rich marinara sauce topped with melted cheese create a meal that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for a weeknight dinner, this dish will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Give it a try—it’s sure to impress!
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