Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
## Introduction
Looking for the perfect comfort food to whip up for the family or to impress at your next dinner party? Look no further than our Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta. This dish is a delightful fusion of wholesome ground beef, creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and tangy marinara.
## Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is an absolute must-try for those who appreciate a hearty and satisfying meal. Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is versatile enough to be a staple mid-week meal or the centerpiece dish at your next gathering. It’s a dish that is loved by both kids and adults, making it a family-friendly option.
## How to Make Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
## Ingredients
– 24 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
## Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the pasta shells until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, cook until the beef is brown and onion is soft. Stir in garlic and let it cook for another minute. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. In a large bowl, mix the ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Add cooled beef and stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a baking dish. Stuff each shell with the beef and ricotta mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.
## How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
For the best eating experience, serve the dish hot right out of the oven. Just be sure to allow it to cool for a few minutes before digging in. Pair the Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad to complete the meal.
## How to Store Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, put it back into the oven set to 375°F until hot and bubbly.
## Tips to Make Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
– Cook pasta shells one minute less than the package instructions to prevent them from getting too soft when you bake them with the filling and sauce.
– Substitute some of the ground beef with Italian sausage for added flavor if desired.
## Variations
– For a vegetarian alternative, replace the ground beef with a mixture of chopped bell peppers and mushrooms.
## FAQs
Q1: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can. Just prepare and bake the dish as instructed then let it cool completely. Cover it tightly and freeze. When ready to serve, you can bake it directly from frozen, just extend the baking time.
Q2: Can I substitute the ricotta with other cheese?
A: Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese if necessary.
Q3: Can I use canned marinara sauce?
A: Yes, a canned marinara sauce works just fine! If you’d prefer to make your own, that works as well.