Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells
Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection. A hearty pasta dish your family will love!
Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells cook extra in case some break
- Ground beef lean is best
- Ricotta cheese whole milk for creaminess
- Mozzarella cheese shredded
- Parmesan cheese grated
- Egg to bind the ricotta mixture
- Garlic and onion minced, for flavor
- Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil and oregano
- Salt and black pepper
- Marinara sauce homemade or store-bought
- Optional: Spinach cottage cheese, or ground turkey as variations
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add jumbo shells and cook just until al dente (about 9–11 minutes).
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Place shells on a baking sheet lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
- Drain excess grease. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Ricotta cheese
- Egg
- Parmesan cheese
- Half of the mozzarella
- Optional: Add spinach or cottage cheese
- Stir until smooth.
- Fold in the cooled beef mixture to create a uniform filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Stuffed Shells
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Use a spoon to fill each shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- Arrange shells open side up in the dish.
- Top with remaining marinara sauce, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of parmesan.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
- Cover dish with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 495 kcal |
| Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
| Sodium | 840mg |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 35g |
| Calcium | 280mg |
| Iron | 3mg |