BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Table of Contents

Introduction

Indulge in these beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling, a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich mixture of seasoned ground beef and creamy ricotta. Baked in a savory marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted mozzarella, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Why choose this BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling recipe?

I love how this dish brings together the best of Italian flavors in one bite. The beef filling is rich and satisfying, while the ricotta adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the pasta. The marinara sauce ties everything together, and the melted mozzarella on top makes it even more irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and makes great leftovers!

Ingredients for BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

20 jumbo pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cups marinara sauce
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Fresh basil, for garnish

Preparation Steps for BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Step 1: Preheat the oven and cook the pasta

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the ground beef and onion mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the ricotta cheese filling

In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg until well combined. Stir the cooled beef mixture into the ricotta filling.

Step 4: Assemble the stuffed shells

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each cooked shell with the beef and ricotta mixture and place in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake the stuffed shells

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the additional mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy the delicious BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling!

Health Benefits of Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling provide a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and dairy. The dish offers essential nutrients such as protein from beef, calcium from ricotta and mozzarella cheese, and vitamins from the marinara sauce and fresh basil, making it a wholesome meal choice.

Origin and History of the Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling Recipe

The beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling recipe has its roots in traditional Italian cuisine. Known for its hearty and indulgent flavors, this dish likely originated in regions where pasta and dairy products like ricotta cheese are staples. Over time, variations of this recipe have emerged, each adding a unique twist to the classic combination of beef and ricotta.

Delicious Variations Around Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

There are several creative variations you can explore to customize your beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling:

Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a kick of heat.
Experiment with different meats like ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for diverse flavor profiles.
Opt for a vegetarian version by substituting beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or lentils.
Enhance the cheesiness by incorporating extra Parmesan or a mix of cheeses like provolone or fontina.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells if available.

Chef’s Tips for Perfecting Your Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Follow these expert tips to elevate your beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling:

Cook the pasta shells just until al dente to prevent them from becoming too soft during baking.
Ensure there’s enough sauce to cover the shells entirely to prevent them from drying out.
Cover the dish with foil for most of the baking time to retain moisture and prevent excessive browning of the cheese topping.
Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld together before serving.

Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

When making BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling, it’s important to avoid overcooking the pasta shells, as they can become too soft and may tear when filling them. Additionally, ensure that the beef filling is adequately seasoned to prevent a bland overall flavor. Lastly, be cautious not to overcrowd the baking dish, as this can lead to uneven cooking and spillage of the filling.

Ingredient Alternatives for BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

If you want to switch up the flavors in your BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as provolone or fontina to vary the richness of the dish. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty and meat-free option.

Tips and Tricks to Perfect Your BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

To elevate your BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling, try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top before serving for a burst of freshness. For a crispy topping, broil the dish for a few minutes at the end of baking to achieve a golden crust. Additionally, let the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Side Dish Suggestions for BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Pair your BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments, adding texture and variety to your meal. Consider serving a side of sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli for a nutritious and well-rounded dinner.

FAQ about the recipe BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

How to store the recipe BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling after cooking?

After cooking, store the BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 4 days, ensuring they are properly cooled before storing to maintain freshness.

Can the recipe BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling be prepared in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling ahead of time. Assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.

What ingredients can be substituted in the recipe BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling?

If needed, you can substitute ingredients in the BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling recipe. For example, cottage cheese can replace ricotta, and ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage can be used instead of ground beef for different flavor profiles.

How to adapt the recipe BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling for a vegetarian version?

To create a vegetarian version of the BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling, you can replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or lentils. This modification maintains the richness and flavor of the dish while making it suitable for vegetarians.

Is the recipe BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling suitable for children?

The BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling can be a kid-friendly option. Children often enjoy the combination of pasta, cheese, and savory flavors. You can adjust the seasoning to suit their taste preferences and introduce them to a comforting and delicious Italian-inspired dish.

Conclusion about the recipe BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

BeefStuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are the ultimate comfort food, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Whether served fresh or enjoyed as leftovers, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds and bring a touch of Italian-inspired goodness to your table.

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