If you’re looking for the perfect combination of rich flavors, creamy textures, and a satisfying bite, look no further than Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling. This Italian-inspired dish features tender jumbo pasta shells stuffed with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef and creamy ricotta cheese, all baked to perfection in a blanket of marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a hearty homemade meal, these beef-stuffed shells are sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Packed with Flavor – The blend of ground beef, ricotta, Italian seasonings, and marinara sauce creates an irresistible taste in every bite.
2. Comfort Food at Its Best – It’s warm, cheesy, and satisfying—perfect for cozy family dinners.
3. Easy to Prepare – While it looks impressive, this dish is surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
5. Kid and Family Approved – Even picky eaters will love these cheesy, beef-filled pasta shells!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious beef-stuffed shells recipe, gather the following ingredients:
• 12 jumbo pasta shells (cooked al dente)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the jumbo pasta shells until they are al dente (firm but not overcooked). Drain and set them aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling
• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
• Drain any excess grease and stir in garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper for extra flavor.
• Pour in ½ cup of marinara sauce and mix everything well. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Stuff the Shells
• Take each cooked pasta shell and spoon a layer of ricotta mixture inside.
• Add a generous spoonful of the beef filling on top.
• Repeat this process until all shells are filled.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread ½ cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer inside the dish.
4. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked to perfection, let the stuffed shells rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy with your favorite side dishes!
Serving Suggestions
This beef-stuffed shells dish is hearty on its own, but you can elevate your meal with these delicious pairings:
• Garlic Bread – A crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra marinara sauce.
• Side Salad – A fresh Caesar salad or garden salad balances the richness of the stuffed shells.
• Roasted Vegetables – Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a healthy touch to your plate.
• Red Wine or Sparkling Water – A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with the robust flavors, or opt for sparkling water with a lemon slice for a refreshing contrast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers:
• Store any leftover stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions:
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals until hot.
• From Frozen: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes, covered with foil, then uncover for the last 10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings classic Italian flavors straight to your dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a family meal, meal prepping for the week, or preparing a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
With a perfect balance of savory beef, creamy ricotta, tangy marinara, and gooey melted cheese, these stuffed shells offer comfort food at its best. Plus, with easy make-ahead and freezing options, you’ll always have a delicious meal ready to go!
So why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy a plate of delicious, cheesy beef-stuffed shells tonight!
I hope you enjoy making this recipe! Let me know if you have any questions or if you’d like more variations on this classic dish. Happy cooking!
