Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

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Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Introduction

Beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling bring the perfect balance of rich, hearty flavors and velvety texture to your table. This dish is a beloved classic in Italian-American cuisine, featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, and parmesan cheese, all baked in a luscious marinara sauce. It’s a comforting meal that’s ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Stuffed pasta dishes have deep roots in Italian cuisine, where variations of conchiglioni ripieni (stuffed shells) have been enjoyed for generations. While traditional Italian fillings often feature spinach and ricotta or seafood, the Italian-American adaptation introduced ground beef, adding a heartier, protein-rich twist. This dish embodies the essence of home cooking—layering simple, fresh ingredients to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Shells and Sauce:

  • 20-24 jumbo pasta shells
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan (for topping)
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Additions

  • Spinach: Add 1 cup of finely chopped spinach to the ricotta mixture for extra greens.
  • Mushrooms: Sauté ½ cup finely chopped mushrooms with the beef for a deeper umami flavor.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle ½ tsp for a hint of heat.
  • Ground Sausage: Substitute half the beef with Italian sausage for added richness.
  • White Sauce: Drizzle a little béchamel sauce for a creamy variation.

Tips for Success

  • Undercook the Shells: Boil the pasta shells until they are slightly firmer than al dente, as they will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Drain the Beef Well: Excess grease can make the filling too wet. Drain thoroughly before mixing.
  • Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the overall flavor.
  • Let the Dish Rest: Allow the shells to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to let the filling set before serving.
  • Double the Recipe: This dish freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta Shells:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo shells until they are just slightly firmer than al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
    • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
    • Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 1-2 more minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Make the Ricotta Filling:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and the cooked beef mixture. Stir until well combined.
  4. Stuff the Shells:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
    • Fill each shell with a generous amount of the beef-ricotta mixture and place them in the dish, open side up.
  5. Assemble and Bake:
    • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
    • Sprinkle the extra mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
    • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  6. Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and let the shells rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Description

Each bite of these Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a combination of hearty, meaty goodness and creamy, cheesy delight. The pasta shells provide a perfect vessel for the rich filling, while the marinara sauce adds a tangy, slightly sweet contrast. The bubbling golden mozzarella topping creates an irresistible, comforting dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Nutritional Information (Per serving, approximately 4 shells)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 780mg

Conclusion

Beef-stuffed shells with ricotta filling are the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy, cheesy textures with the hearty satisfaction of seasoned beef. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Recommendation

Pair this dish with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, and a glass of red wine (such as Chianti or Merlot) for a well-balanced meal. If you’re looking for a lighter option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple broth-based soup.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

While this recipe is rich and satisfying, you can make it healthier by using whole wheat pasta shells, lean ground turkey instead of beef, or even adding zucchini noodles as a substitute for some of the shells. For a lower-fat version, opt for part-skim ricotta and mozzarella. These small changes allow you to enjoy the indulgent flavors while maintaining a balanced diet.

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