The Ultimate Comfort Food for Pasta Lovers
Introduction
When it comes to Italian-inspired comfort food, nothing beats the combination of tender pasta, creamy ricotta cheese, and savory ground beef. This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that brings a hearty, cheesy, and flavorful meal to the table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is both indulgent and satisfying.
Not only is this recipe easy to follow, but it also allows for customization to suit your tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these stuffed shells are guaranteed to impress.
-Ingredients
For the Pasta Shells:
20 large pasta shells
1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Filling:
1 cup ricotta cheese
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
1 large egg, beaten
For the Sauce and Garnish:
2½ cups tomato basil sauce
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
-Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking.
2. Cook the Pasta Shells:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until they are al dente. Drain and let them cool slightly to make handling easier.
3. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
Stir in the minced garlic and oregano, cooking until fragrant (about 1–2 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
4. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper.
Once the beef mixture has cooled, fold it into the cheese mixture until well combined.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Spread 1 cup of the tomato basil sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Fill each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Arrange the stuffed shells snugly in the baking dish.
6. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Pour the remaining tomato basil sauce over the stuffed shells.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake the Stuffed Shells:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Let the dish cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
-Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
1. Rich and Creamy: The ricotta and mozzarella blend creates a velvety filling that perfectly complements the tangy tomato sauce.
2. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly while yielding restaurant-quality results.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, potluck, or celebration, these stuffed shells are always a hit.
4. Customizable: Add spinach, mushrooms, or your favorite herbs to make it your own.
-Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells
1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the shells to al dente prevents them from falling apart when stuffed and baked.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and high-quality cheese make all the difference in flavor.
3. Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
4. Freezer-Friendly: This dish freezes beautifully! Prepare and freeze before baking, then bake from frozen at 375°F for an additional 20–25 minutes.
-Delicious Variations
Spinach and Ricotta: Add sautéed spinach to the cheese filling for a healthy twist.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
Spicy Kick: Mix red pepper flakes into the beef mixture for some heat.
Alfredo Style: Swap the tomato basil sauce for creamy Alfredo sauce for a rich, decadent flavor.
-Serving Suggestions
Complete your meal with these perfect pairings:
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a classic side for any pasta dish.
Caesar Salad: A fresh and tangy Caesar salad balances the richness of the stuffed shells.
Wine Pairing: Serve with a glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, to complement the flavors.
-Nutritional Information
Calories per serving: 410 kcal
Servings: 6 generous portions
-FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Parmesan, Gouda, or Fontina for unique flavors.
2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe scales well, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.
-The Backstory
Stuffed pasta shells, or “conchiglioni,” originated in Italy and have been a staple of comfort food across generations. Traditionally filled with ricotta cheese and baked in marinara sauce, this dish has evolved to include creative fillings and toppings. The combination of ricotta and beef in this recipe adds a hearty twist to the classic, making it a satisfying meal for any pasta lover.
-Conclusion
This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that will leave your family and guests raving. With its rich flavors, creamy filling, and perfect balance of textures, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table. Try it today and experience the magic of Italian-inspired cooking in your own kitchen!
