Stuffed shells are a classic comfort food, and this creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells recipe elevates the dish to new heights of deliciousness. Forget bland, watery fillings; this recipe delivers a rich, flavorful experience that will leave you wanting more. We'll cover everything from prepping the ingredients to achieving that perfect creamy sauce, ensuring your stuffed shells are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What Makes These Stuffed Shells Special?
These aren't your average stuffed shells. The secret lies in a few key elements:
- Flavorful Beef Filling: We're not just using ricotta; we're adding seasoned ground beef for a hearty, protein-packed filling. The combination of savory beef and creamy ricotta creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Creamy, Rich Sauce: Forget basic marinara! We'll craft a luscious creamy sauce that complements the filling perfectly. Think velvety smooth, bursting with flavor, and just the right amount of tang.
- Perfectly Cooked Shells: We'll ensure your jumbo pasta shells are cooked al dente, preventing them from becoming mushy and holding their shape beautifully.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other:
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Beef Filling: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened. Stir in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Stuff the Shells: Gently fill each cooked shell with the beef and ricotta mixture.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour half of the creamy sauce into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the shells. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of pasta shells?
While jumbo shells are ideal for this recipe due to their size and ability to hold the filling, you could experiment with other large pasta shapes, such as manicotti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and ricotta filling a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This can save you time on the day you plan to bake the stuffed shells.
What kind of cheese can I substitute for the mozzarella?
Provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses would be excellent substitutes for the mozzarella.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the ground beef and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or mushrooms to the ricotta mixture for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells and sauce in a baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze before baking. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overfill the shells; they may burst during baking.
- If your sauce is too thick, add a little water or milk to thin it out.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
This creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The rich, flavorful filling and creamy sauce create a truly decadent dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. Enjoy!
