Description
Dive into the comforting world of Italian cuisine with our delightful Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling.
Ingredients
- Jumbo Pasta Shells: 24
- Ground Beef: 1 pound
- Yellow Onion: 1 small, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, grated
- Egg: 1 large
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Marinara Sauce: 3 cups
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
Instructions
- Kick off your cooking by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a generous pot of salted water for the pasta shells—it needs to be seasoned well to bring out the natural flavor of the pasta. Add the jumbo shells once the water is boiling and cook them until they are al dente according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set these aside as they cool, ready to be filled with our delicious mixture.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, pour a splash of oil (if desired) and sauté the diced yellow onions until they become translucent and tender. At this point, introduce the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until it has browned evenly. Add the minced garlic, allowing the flavors to develop for another minute. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish light—but not lacking in flavor.
- It’s now time to create the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the beef mixture with ricotta cheese, one cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the components are fully integrated, creating a creamy, seasoned filling that will form the heart of your stuffed shells.
- Spoon a cup of marinara sauce evenly across the base of your 9×13 baking dish. Using a spoon, fill each cooked shell generously with the beef and cheese mixture. Nestle each shell in the prepared dish, giving each a space to allow for even cooking and moisture.
- With all your shells snugly arranged, pour over the remaining marinara sauce, ensuring it covers the tops of the shells to keep them from drying during baking. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella generously over the dish, promising that melted, bubbly cheese texture we all love.
- Cover your masterpiece with foil, sealing in heat and flavor, and bake for 25 minutes. To finish, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the mozzarella is gloriously melted and golden.
- Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness, and serve piping hot, ideally with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Notes
Ensure your pasta shells are cooked al dente as they will continue cooking in the oven and must hold their shape.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 465 kcal
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Protein: 26 g