Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
Introduction
Are you ready to dive into a plate of pure comfort? Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are not just any ordinary dish; they’re a celebration of flavors that will warm your heart and tickle your taste buds! Imagine large pasta shells cradling a savory blend of ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella. This dish is not only hearty; it’s a family favorite that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Here’s a fun fact: Did you know that stuffed pasta has been around for centuries? Italy is known for its rich culinary history, and dishes like these remind us of their roots. What makes Beef-Stuffed Shells so special is how quick and simple they are to prepare while delivering a delightful experience that everyone will love. If you enjoy comforting meals like this, you should also check out our classic Baked Ziti recipe. This dish is guaranteed to impress, so gather your family and friends, and prepare to indulge in a delicious night!
What is Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling?
What exactly are Beef-Stuffed Shells, you ask? Picture this: substantial pasta shells, big enough to hold a mouthwatering mixture of ground beef and mixed cheeses, all baked in a luscious tomato sauce. The name may conjure images of fine dining, but let’s face it — it’s actually just a delicious way to pack in flavors! It’s almost as if the pasta has taken on a superhero identity, embracing the savory goodness within. After all, they say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these shells will make anyone’s heart skip a beat! So, don’t wait—try this recipe, and you’ll see how easy it is to impress your loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
This dish is a game changer in the world of comfort food! One of the main highlights of Beef-Stuffed Shells is that they are so versatile. You can easily adjust the filling to suit your taste buds, whether you add extra herbs or use different cheeses. Plus, making this dish at home is a significant cost saver compared to takeout, and trust me, it’s a lot more satisfying!
And let’s talk about those perfectly melted layers of cheese on top — they’re simply irresistible! You can easily customize the flavors by adding your favorite toppings like fresh herbs or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. If you enjoy similar dishes like Lasagna, you’ll definitely find joy in this recipe too. So, roll up your sleeves and give these Beef-Stuffed Shells a try—you’ll be glad you did!
How to Make Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
Quick Overview
Making Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a breeze! With a preparation time of just about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, you’ll find yourself enjoying this divine dish in no time. This recipe boasts simplicity and delectable flavors with key features like a creamy filling and gooey cheese on top, making it a family-friendly delight that everyone will ask for seconds!
Key Ingredients for Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package large pasta shells
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
(Insert high-quality image showing the ingredients here)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta shells in a large pot of boiling salted water for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Drain any excess grease.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture, and place them in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, coating them generously. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top if desired.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil if you like, serve warm, and enjoy!
What to Serve Beef-Stuffed Shells with
Pair your Beef-Stuffed Shells with a simple side salad sprinkled with fresh vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread is another classic that complements the rich flavors beautifully. If you want to elevate your meal, consider serving it alongside a glass of red wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon to complete the experience!
Top Tips for Perfecting Beef-Stuffed Shells
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the shells al dente since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables or lentils for a plant-based delight.
- Make ahead: Assemble your stuffed shells and cover them with foil in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking!
- Add depth of flavor: Play around with herbs like oregano or thyme in your beef mixture for added taste.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare with this crowd-pleaser!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your Beef-Stuffed Shells again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly.
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make some Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 package large pasta shells
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the pasta shells in a large pot of boiling salted water for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and ground beef, cooking until the beef is browned. Drain any excess grease.
- In a bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each cooked shell with the beef and cheese mixture, and place them in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, coating them generously. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top if desired.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil if you like, serve warm, and enjoy!
- What to Serve Beef-Stuffed Shells with
- Pair your Beef-Stuffed Shells with a simple side salad sprinkled with fresh vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread is another classic that complements the rich flavors beautifully. If you want to elevate your meal, consider serving it alongside a glass of red wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon to complete the experience!
- Top Tips for Perfecting Beef-Stuffed Shells
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the shells al dente since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables or lentils for a plant-based delight.
- Make ahead: Assemble your stuffed shells and cover them with foil in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking!
- Add depth of flavor: Play around with herbs like oregano or thyme in your beef mixture for added taste.
- Storing and Reheating Tips
- If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare with this crowd-pleaser!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy your Beef-Stuffed Shells again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly.
- Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make some Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!
Leave a Reply