Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Cheesy, savory, and utterly comforting, these Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Each jumbo pasta shell is packed with a flavorful beef and ricotta mixture, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with melty cheese. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

For the stuffed shells:

20-25 jumbo pasta shells
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the sauce:

3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon olive oil

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and the cooled beef mixture. Mix until well incorporated.
Assemble the dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each shell with 1-2 tablespoons of the beef and ricotta mixture and arrange them in the dish. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells, then sprinkle with extra mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Serve warm with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Shells

Avoid overcooking the shells: Cook them until just al dente to prevent tearing when stuffing.
Make it ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Add a twist: For extra flavor, mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or Italian sausage with the filling.

Why You’ll Love It

This Beef-Stuffed Shells recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort. The creamy ricotta filling and hearty beef make it rich and satisfying, while the marinara adds a bright, tangy touch. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it’s a dish everyone will rave about

A Hearty, Comforting Meal

These Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together savory beef, smooth ricotta, and a tangy marinara sauce for a truly satisfying experience. Each bite is bursting with rich flavors, making this dish perfect for cozy nights at home or for feeding a hungry crowd. It’s a meal that fills both the stomach and the soul.

Customization at Its Best

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to make it your own. You can switch out the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a meatless option like lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers to the filling not only enhances the flavors but also makes it even more nutritious.

A Family-Friendly Favorite

Kids and adults alike will love these cheesy, flavorful stuffed shells. The combination of pasta, meat, and cheese is always a winning choice, and the dish is hearty enough to please even the biggest appetites. It’s an easy, make-ahead meal that’s perfect for busy families, ensuring you have a delicious dinner ready with minimal effort