Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
Ingredients:
12 jumbo pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 egg
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and let them cool slightly.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Remove from heat.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring until smooth.
Fill each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, and place the filled shells in a baking dish.
Spoon the beef and marinara sauce mixture over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a comforting dish that combines flavors and textures in every bite. To make these stuffed shells even more delightful, you can experiment with adding vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms into the ricotta mixture for a nutritional boost. Also, try varying the herbs; basil or thyme can add additional fragrance and flavor. For a spicy kick, consider mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes with the beef or try a spicy marinara sauce. Pair these delicious beef-stuffed shells with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This recipe is not just a family favorite but can also become a part of your meal prep routine, as the dish holds up well in the refrigerator and can be reheated. Frozen, they’re perfect for busy nights when you need a quick and satisfying dinner solution. Enjoy making these cheesy, meaty delights at home!
