Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

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Ah, the comforting embrace of pasta, savory ground beef, and creamy ricotta—it almost feels like a warm hug from your favorite aunt, doesn’t it? Beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling is the ultimate solution for a busy weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering. This recipe is not just about deliciousness; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table with those you love. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into the simple joy of cooking together!

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

Let’s face it; sometimes, cooking can feel like a chore. Between juggling work, kids, and everything else on our plates, making dinner should be both enjoyable and satisfying. These beef-stuffed shells tick all the boxes: they’re filling, flavorful, and—best of all—easy to prepare! Plus, your family (or guests) will think you’ve spent all day in the kitchen, which is our little secret, right?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil (for garnish, optional)

Cooking Steps

1. Prepare the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo shells and cook until they’re al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain carefully—because no one wants a broken shell on their dinner plate! Rinse them gently with cold water, and set aside.

2. Make the Filling

In a medium skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain the excess fat and stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Once the beef is cooked, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, the egg, and the cooked beef. Mix until everything is well combined.

3. Stuff the Shells

Now comes the fun part! Grab your cooked shells and carefully stuff each one with a generous spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture. It’s a bit like doing a puzzle, but don’t worry if they look a little messy—perfectly imperfect is totally okay in the kitchen!

4. Assemble and Bake

In a baking dish, pour a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom (this helps prevent sticking). Place your stuffed shells in the baking dish, then drizzle the remaining marinara over them. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once they’re out of the oven, let those cheesy beauties rest for a few minutes. You can garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. Then serve warm and watch your loved ones dig in—just don’t forget to save a plate for yourself!

Cooking Tips

Here are a few tips to make your cooking experience even smoother and add a sprinkle of joy:

• Don’t have ricotta on hand? Cottage cheese can work in a pinch! Just blend it until smooth for a similar texture.
• Beef not your thing? Feel free to swap it out for ground turkey or chicken—these shells are versatile!
• Extra Sauce Enthusiasts: If you’re like me and can’t resist extra sauce, make sure to have an extra jar on the side for drizzling before serving.

Personal Anecdotes

You know, I still remember the first time I made these beef-stuffed shells. My kids were running around, and I was dishing out the last of the sauce—let’s just say it turned into a mini pasta party in our kitchen! Those little moments, filled with laughter and messy faces, are what cooking is all about. Now, every time I make them, I’m transported back to that chaotic yet heartwarming day.

FAQs

Can I freeze leftover beef-stuffed shells?
Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for about three months.

How can I store leftovers?
They’ll keep in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

Is there a vegetarian option?
You bet! You can modify the filling with sautéed vegetables or mushrooms, skipping the meat altogether. Your veggie-loving friends will appreciate it!

Now that you’ve mastered beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling, you have a go-to recipe that’s sure to impress. It’s quick, easy, and wonderfully satisfying—just what we need to brighten up any day! So the next time you find yourself in need of a comfort meal, remember these shells. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!

for more reciepes check my

Creamy Garlic Steak Pasta

or  Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

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