Introduction
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta is the kind of baked pasta dish that instantly feels like home. Large pasta shells are generously filled with a savory beef and ricotta mixture, layered in rich sauce, and baked until bubbly and golden. This is one of those recipes that delivers comfort, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite. I often make this dish when I want something hearty that can feed a family or be prepared ahead for busy evenings. The creamy ricotta keeps the filling soft and rich, while the seasoned beef adds depth and substance. Once baked, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that tastes even better the next day. Whether served for a casual family dinner, a weekend gathering, or a freezer-friendly meal prep option, beef-stuffed shells are a timeless pasta classic that never disappoints.
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Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta – A Comforting Baked Pasta Classic
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta is a comforting baked pasta dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with seasoned ground beef and rich ricotta cheese, topped with marinara and melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook jumbo shells according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Remove from heat and stir in ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Stuff each shell with the beef and ricotta mixture and arrange in the dish.
- Spoon remaining marinara over the shells.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish and serve warm.
Notes
- Do not overcook shells to prevent tearing.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Pairs well with garlic bread or salad.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is rich, filling, and incredibly comforting. It is easy to assemble, perfect for make-ahead meals, and ideal for feeding a crowd. The combination of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and savory beef makes it a guaranteed family favorite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Jumbo pasta shells
Jumbo shells are perfect for stuffing and hold the filling securely while baking.
Ground beef
Ground beef adds hearty, savory flavor and makes the dish satisfying and filling.
Ricotta cheese
Ricotta provides creaminess and a soft texture that balances the richness of the beef.
Mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella melts beautifully and creates a gooey, comforting top layer.
Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds sharpness and depth to the filling and sauce.
Egg
Egg helps bind the ricotta mixture so the filling holds together when baked.
Marinara sauce
Marinara sauce adds acidity and moisture, tying all the components together.
Onion
Onion adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
Garlic
Garlic enhances the overall savory flavor of the dish.
Olive oil
Olive oil is used to sauté the beef and aromatics evenly.
Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning adds classic herb flavor that complements the beef and cheese.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors in the dish.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the jumbo shells until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Add the ground beef, season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat and remove from heat.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Stir in the cooked beef mixture until well combined.
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each cooked shell generously with the beef and ricotta mixture and arrange them in the dish. Spoon remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 25 minutes, and baking time is 35 to 40 minutes. Total time is about 1 hour.
Variations and Customizations
Beef-stuffed shells are very adaptable. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adding spinach to the ricotta mixture adds color and extra nutrition. For a richer filling, mix in a small amount of cream cheese.
You can also experiment with sauces, such as using a tomato basil sauce or adding a layer of béchamel for extra creaminess. For a spicy version, include crushed red pepper flakes in the beef mixture. This dish also works well assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
The following nutrition information is approximate and based on one serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated fat | 13 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do not overcook the shells
Slightly firm shells hold their shape better when stuffed.
Drain beef well
Removing excess fat prevents a greasy filling.
Use whole-milk ricotta
It creates a creamier, richer texture.
Let it rest
Resting helps the shells set for cleaner serving.
Cover while baking
This keeps the dish moist before browning.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen before or after baking.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to one day ahead and bake before serving.
Can I freeze stuffed shells?
Yes, they freeze very well either baked or unbaked.
What sauce works best?
Classic marinara is ideal, but other tomato sauces work too.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini work well.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it has mild, familiar flavors.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, omit beef and add vegetables or lentils.
Why are my shells watery?
Ricotta may need draining if very moist.
Can I use cottage cheese?
Yes, blended cottage cheese can substitute ricotta.
Conclusion
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta is a comforting, classic baked pasta dish that brings together hearty flavor and creamy texture in every bite. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, this recipe is a dependable favorite that fits both weeknight dinners and special family meals.
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