Ground Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta

Looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings? Ground Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta is an incredibly delicious recipe that combines tender pasta shells stuffed with a flavorful ground beef mixture, topped with marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This dish is not only filling but also easy to make, and it offers a wonderful balance of savory flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 20-24 large pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg (beaten)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil (for greasing)

How to Make Ground Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta ?

Step 1: Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: While the pasta shells are cooling, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.

Step 5: Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, then place them into the prepared baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 6: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with a combination of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a lighter, veggie-packed version.
• Spicy Stuffed Shells: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the beef and ricotta mixture to spice up this dish.
• Cheese Lovers: Add additional layers of cheese, such as provolone or gouda, for an even cheesier experience.

Cooking Note

If you have leftover stuffed shells, they store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen before baking for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these Ground Beef Stuffed Shells with a side of garlic bread for a classic Italian dinner experience.
• Pair with a fresh green salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced meal.

Helpful Tips

• Pre-cook your shells: Don’t overcook your pasta shells; they should still be slightly firm. Overcooked shells can break when stuffed.
• Mix-ins: Feel free to mix in cooked spinach, bell peppers, or even sautéed onions for added flavor and nutrition.
• Even Layering: When layering your stuffed shells in the baking dish, ensure each shell is spaced evenly for uniform cooking and flavor distribution.

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• Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells Recipe
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FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: While large pasta shells are ideal for stuffing, you can also use manicotti tubes as a substitute.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the stuffed shells a day in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just bake them the next day when you’re ready to serve.

Q: How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

A: Use dairy-free ricotta cheese and mozzarella alternatives to make this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets.

Q: Can I freeze these stuffed shells ?

A: Absolutely! Assemble the stuffed shells and freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to eat, bake straight from the freezer, adding extra time to the cooking process.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Stuffed Shells with Ricotta is a wonderfully versatile and hearty dish that delivers satisfying flavors in every bite. The combination of savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy the rich, comforting taste of homemade stuffed shells!

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