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Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe

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This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe combines tender pasta shells filled with a hearty beef and creamy ricotta mixture, topped with rich marinara and melty cheese. Perfect for comfort food cravings, this Italian-inspired dinner is easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2024 jumbo pasta shells

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 3 cups marinara sauce

  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent, then add ground beef. Cook until browned and drain any excess fat.

  4. In a large bowl, mix ricotta, egg, mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add cooked beef and stir to combine.

  5. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.

  6. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef-ricotta mixture and place in the dish.

  7. Top with remaining marinara and sprinkle with additional mozzarella.

  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

  9. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use cottage cheese as a substitute for ricotta if desired.

  • You can prepare the shells in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

  • Great for freezing — just assemble and freeze before baking.

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