Make the Ricotta Filling:
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, and the egg. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the ricotta mixture and stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
Stuff the Pasta Shells:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta and beef mixture, making sure not to overfill them. Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells, making sure to cover each one.
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the sauce. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Bake the Stuffed Shells:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve and Garnish:
Once the shells are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for an added touch of freshness and flavor. Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
These creamy stuffed shells are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, a mixed green salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also drizzle a little extra marinara sauce on top for added flavor and moisture.
Storing Leftovers:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can freeze the stuffed shells before baking. Simply stuff the shells, cover them tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, cook from frozen (just add an additional 20-30 minutes to the baking time).
Make Ahead:
You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time by assembling them a day in advance and refrigerating them until you’re ready to bake. This is perfect for meal prepping or when you want to save time on busy evenings.
Variants:
Vegetarian Option:
To make this dish vegetarian, you can substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a mixture of other vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. You could also add crumbled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein option.
Spicy Stuffed Shells:
If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or spice up your marinara sauce with jalapeños or hot sauce.
Chicken or Turkey Stuffed Shells:
For a leaner alternative, substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey. This will give the dish a slightly lighter flavor while still maintaining its richness.
FAQ:
Can I use regular pasta shells instead of jumbo shells?
While jumbo shells work best for stuffing, you can use regular pasta shells or even cannelloni tubes as a substitute. Just make sure the filling fits inside the shells comfortably.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the ricotta and beef filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before stuffing the shells. This can save you time on busy days.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells, which are available in most grocery stores. Ensure that your marinara sauce is also gluten-free or make your own from scratch.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with non-dairy alternatives such as cashew cheese or tofu-based ricotta. You can also use dairy-free cheese for the topping and in the filling.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze these stuffed shells either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen when ready to eat, adding extra time to the cooking process.
Conclusion:
Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are a delicious and satisfying comfort food that combines all your favorite ingredients—cheese, beef, pasta, and marinara sauce—into one amazing dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for the week, this recipe offers convenience without compromising on flavor. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Serve it up with a side of salad or garlic bread, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to please everyone!
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