Description
Succulent ricotta beef stuffed shells combine Italian comfort with rich, hearty flavors in a mouthwatering pasta experience. Melted cheese, seasoned beef, and delicate pasta shells promise a satisfying meal that will delight you with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large egg
Cheeses:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided for filling and sauce)
Herbs, Seasonings, and Aromatics:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Sauce:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Sauté ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until thoroughly browned, eliminating any excess grease. Transfer cooked meat to a preparation bowl.
- Create a luxurious filling by blending the cooked beef with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until uniformly incorporated.
- Carefully fill each pre-cooked pasta shell with the rich meat and cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Craft a velvety sauce by gently warming marinara with heavy cream and Parmesan in a saucepan, stirring until smooth and integrated.
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spreading a thin sauce layer across the bottom. Nestle the stuffed shells carefully into the dish, then cascade the remaining sauce over the entire surface.
- Heat the oven to 375F (190C). Shield the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, creating a steamy environment for flavor melding.
- Uncover the dish and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the top to transform into a golden, bubbling masterpiece.
- Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest briefly, letting the flavors settle and intensify before serving this decadent pasta creation.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a healthier version of the dish.
- Experiment with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for different dietary preferences.
- Pat the cooked pasta shells dry before stuffing to prevent watery filling and ensure a perfect texture.
- Grate fresh Parmesan cheese for a more intense and authentic flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 488 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg