## Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
Ready to satisfy your craving for something rich, hearty, and delicious? Let’s dig into a plateful of Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta! It’s a warming, fulfilling dish combining ground beef, creamy ricotta, tantalizing cheese, and pasta shells, baked to perfection—a never-fail dish for family dinners or a cozy night in.
## Why Make This Recipe
First of all, it’s a perfect way to use ground beef in a fantastic Italian-inspired dish. To add, it’s creamy, cheese-filled, and comforting—perfect for those cold days or when you simply want a deliciously loaded, flavorful dish. Moreover, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare and is sure to impress your family or guests.
## How to Make Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
## Ingredients:
– 24 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
## Directions:
1. Start by boiling the jumbo pasta shells in salted water until it reaches al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it turns brown. Add in the minced garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for two more minutes, then remove from heat to cool slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cooled beef mixture, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and the egg. Mix the ingredients until they’re thoroughly combined.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, spread one cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a baking dish.
5. Fill each shell with the ricotta-beef mixture and place them in the dish, keeping the open side up.
6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce all over the pasta shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes, removing the foil for the last five minutes to let the cheese brown.
7. To serve, garnish with fresh basil for an added touch.
## How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
To serve the pasta, simply scoop a few shells into a dish, making sure you include some of the sauce. You may accompany it with warm crusty bread and a side salad to make a complete meal. Don’t forget to sprinkle a generous helping of cheese on top!
## How to Store Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
Storing is simple! Allow the leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. You can keep the pasta in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them in the oven or microwave until they’re hot throughout.
## Tips to Make Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta
The secret to a great tasting pasta dish is in the sauce, so ensure your marinara sauce is of great quality. Salt your pasta water well, as this gives the pasta flavour. Last, but not the least, don’t overcook the pasta shells—remember, you will still bake them!
## Variation
For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground beef with a vegetable mix like stir-fried bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.
## FAQ’s
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese. However, the combination of ricotta, mozzarella and parmesan gives the best flavor.
2. What can I serve with the Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta?
A simple side salad or bread would go well with this dish.
3. Can I prepare the pasta shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them hours before, just ensure to store them in a sealed container in the fridge.
Dive in to enjoy this easy, delicious and hearty Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta. Savour every bite!