Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta Recipe

Introduction: The Perfect Pasta for a Cozy Night In

There’s something magical about a warm, cheesy baked pasta dish on a chilly evening. Picture this: the scent of tomato basil sauce wafting through the kitchen, the sizzle of mozzarella bubbling in the oven, and a table set for laughter and comfort food. Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the kind of dish that feels like a hug in every bite—hearty, cheesy, and packed with rich Italian flavor.

Inspired by classic Italian-American Sunday dinners, this recipe blends savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella all tucked into perfectly cooked pasta shells and bathed in a vibrant tomato basil sauce. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether it’s a quiet family meal, a potluck with friends, or part of your next holiday feast. Get ready to create your new go-to comfort dish—easy enough for a weeknight, impressive enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Shells Recipe

This isn’t just any pasta bake—this recipe takes the best elements of lasagna and simplifies them into individual bites of creamy, meaty goodness. Here’s what makes this dish a standout:

  • ✅ Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults love it—no picky eaters here.
  • 🧀 Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy cheese, savory beef, and rich sauce in every forkful.
  • 🕓 Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it the night before and just pop it in the oven.
  • 🥘 Freezer-Friendly: Great for meal prep and freezing in portions.
  • 🎉 Perfect for Gatherings: Feeds a crowd with minimal effort.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, these stuffed shells deliver restaurant-quality results with home-cooked heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and classic Italian ingredients. Here’s your shopping list:

  • 20 large pasta shells – Jumbo shells that hold plenty of filling.
  • 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef – Adds savory depth to the filling.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – For bold flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Classic Italian seasoning.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese – The creamy base of the filling.
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided – Melty and irresistible.
  • ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese – Adds sharp, salty contrast.
  • 1 large egg, beaten – Binds the filling together.
  • 2½ cups tomato basil sauce – Use store-bought or homemade.
  • Salt and black pepper – To season everything just right.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – For a pop of color and freshness.

Tip: Want to make it vegetarian? Simply swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through how to make these stuffed shells. It’s easier than it looks—and totally worth the minimal effort.

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you are.

2. Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 20 jumbo pasta shells and cook until just al dente—about 8–9 minutes.
Drain and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside on a tray to prevent sticking.

3. Make the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked (about 5–6 minutes).
Add minced garlic and oregano, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.

4. Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • The cooled beef mixture
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • ½ cup Pecorino Romano
  • 1 beaten egg
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Mix until smooth and well combined.

5. Assemble the Dish

In a 9×13-inch baking dish:

  • Spread 1 cup of tomato basil sauce on the bottom.
  • Carefully fill each cooked shell with a generous spoonful of the beef and cheese mixture.
  • Place each stuffed shell snugly in the dish, open side up.

6. Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining 1½ cups of tomato basil sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese.

7. Bake to Perfection

  • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve with warm garlic bread and a side salad for the ultimate Italian-American meal.

Expert Tips & Variations

Make this dish your own with these helpful tips and fun variations:

🔄 Make-Ahead Option

  • Assemble the stuffed shells and cover tightly with foil.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

❄️ Freezer-Friendly

  • Assemble the dish fully but don’t bake.
  • Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Bake from frozen at 375°F for 50–60 minutes, covered, then 10 minutes uncovered.

🌿 Vegetarian Twist

  • Swap out the beef for:
    • Sautéed mushrooms and spinach
    • Lentils
    • Plant-based ground “meat”

🌶️ Add Some Heat

  • Mix red pepper flakes into the filling or sauce for a spicy kick.

🧄 Boost the Sauce

  • Stir a splash of red wine, extra garlic, or fresh basil into your sauce before layering.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your meal, consider these perfect pairings:

🥖 Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside, buttery and soft on the inside. Perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

🥗 Italian Salad

Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, and a zesty vinaigrette help balance the richness of the dish.

🍷 Wine Pairing

A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato sauce and beef beautifully.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Estimated for 6 servings:

  • Calories: 475
  • Protein: 29g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 820mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.

Storage and Reheating Tips

🧊 To Store:

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

🔥 To Reheat:

  • Microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes until hot.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil.

Share the Love: Make It for Others

This dish isn’t just for your table—it’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re bringing a meal to new parents, a sick friend, or hosting a cozy dinner party, Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is guaranteed to make hearts (and bellies) full.

Want to make it gift-friendly? Assemble in a disposable baking dish, cover tightly, and include a little note with baking instructions.

Final Thoughts: Your New Favorite Comfort Food

Few dishes match the cozy satisfaction of warm, creamy stuffed shells. With layers of rich flavor, bubbly cheese, and hearty beef, this recipe is an invitation to slow down, gather around the table, and enjoy food made with love. Whether it’s a simple weeknight meal or part of a bigger celebration, these stuffed shells are guaranteed to be a hit.

Try it once, and you’ll be hooked. Don’t forget to bookmark, share, and tag your creations! #StuffedShellsMagic

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