Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Savory Beef Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Sauce, a delightful blend of tender pasta, rich beef, and creamy cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients
- Giant Pasta Shells (Conchiglioni)
- Ricotta Cheese
- Ground Beef
- Marinara or Pasta Sauce
- Mozzarella Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese
- Egg
- Onion
- Garlic
- Fresh parsley
- Fresh basil
- Italian seasoning blend
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes
- Beef broth or non-alcoholic cooking wine
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the shells and cook them according to package directions, aiming for al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Beef Filling: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add diced onion and cook until softened, then stir in minced garlic. Season with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. If using, add a splash of beef broth to deglaze the pan and let it cool.
- Mix the Ricotta Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, and basil. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until smooth.
- Combine the Fillings: Once the beef mixture has cooled, add it to the ricotta mixture and stir gently until well combined.
- Assemble the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and ricotta filling and arrange them in the dish.
- Top and Bake: Pour remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving, garnished with fresh parsley or basil.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed shell
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: Ensure not to overcook the shells to prevent tearing. If the ricotta is watery, drain it before use. You can make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later.