When it comes to hearty comfort food, Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta take center stage! These delightful pasta shells are bursting with a savory beef filling and wrapped in creamy ricotta, making them a texture-lover’s dream. Imagine the first bite—soft, tender pasta giving way to a flavorful, meaty core, complemented by the smoothness of ricotta and a light marinara sauce. It’s not only a feast for the palate but also a joy to the eyes with its vibrant hues of red and white.
I remember my first time making this dish; I was nervously hosting a family dinner and wanted to impress my guests. Little did I know, the trials of assembling these shells would turn into an impromptu kitchen comedy show! Just like my crowd-favorite Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, these beef-stuffed shells are sure to become an instant hit at your next family gathering. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into why this recipe is both special and simple!
What is Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta?
So, what exactly are Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta? Imagine a giant pasta shell cradling a delightful mixture of ground beef, spices, and creamy ricotta cheese—sounds delicious, right? One might wonder how they got such a fancy name. Perhaps they were named after culinary royalty or were a sought-after treasure among Italian grandmothers! Whatever the case, you’ll soon find that no matter the origin, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and this dish is no exception. Ready to amp up your cooking game? Let’s get you started on these mouthwatering beefy delights!
Why You’ll Love This Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta
When it comes to showcasing a main dish, Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta certainly stands out. Picture this: al dente pasta hugging a flavorful beef filling, making every bite a celebration of taste. Not to mention, cooking these at home is a budget-friendly choice! Instead of splurging at a restaurant, you’ll get to enjoy these delightful shells right in your cozy kitchen, without breaking the bank.
Now, let’s talk toppings! The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—dress it up with a sprinkling of fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a dusting of cheese for that extra indulgence. If you’re thinking of a dish to serve that rivals the hearty satisfaction of lasagna, look no further. Ready to impress your family with something delicious? Dive into this recipe!
How to Make Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta
Quick Overview
Making Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta is a breeze! This simple yet satisfying dish comes together with minimal fuss, allowing you to savor every flavorful bite. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes, your kitchen will soon be filled with delightful aromas that will have everyone gathering around the table in anticipation.
Key Ingredients for Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta
To make these delectable beef-stuffed shells, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Jumbo pasta shells – 12-16 shells (depending on how hungry everyone is!)
- Ground beef – 1 pound (look for halal-certified)
- Ricotta cheese – 1 cup
- Shredded mozzarella cheese – 1 cup
- Marinara sauce – 2 cups (choose your favorite brand or homemade)
- Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup for topping
- Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped (for garnish)
- Black pepper – to taste
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions, usually 10-12 minutes. You’ll want them just shy of al dente since they’ll be baked later. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef Filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat. Season with black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Combine with Ricotta: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Fill the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each pasta shell and generously fill it with the beef and ricotta mixture, then place it in a greased baking dish.
- Add the Sauce: Once all the shells are filled, pour the marinara sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the dish sit for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Top Tips for Perfecting Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta
- Ingredient Swaps: If you’re looking for variations, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also make a vegetarian version by swapping meat for sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Timing is Key: Ensure your pasta shells are cooked just right—undercooked is better than overcooked, as they will continue to soften during baking.
- Avoid Common Pitfalls: Make sure not to overfill the shells to prevent spills during baking. A nice, even filling will ensure even cooking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which might be hard to believe), you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to freeze them, they keep well for about 2-3 months. For the best reheating, simply defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. A sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before reheating can rejuvenate that delicious cheesy crust!
With this Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta recipe, you are equipped to impress your family with a delicious, comforting meal any time. Gather around the table and enjoy! Happy cooking!
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta
Ingredients
Shells and Filling
- 12-16 shells jumbo pasta shells Depending on how hungry everyone is!
- 1 pound ground beef Look for halal-certified beef.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Divided for filling and topping.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Use your favorite brand or homemade.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese For topping.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley Chopped for garnish.
- to taste black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions, usually 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat. Season with black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take each pasta shell and generously fill it with the beef and ricotta mixture, then place it in a greased baking dish.
- Once all the shells are filled, pour the marinara sauce evenly over the top, then sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Once out of the oven, let the dish sit for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
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