Why Make This Recipe

Beef and Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce is a delightful dish that everyone will love. It’s comforting, hearty, and perfect for family dinners. The combination of beef, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce creates a rich flavor that’s satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

How to Make Beef and Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce

Ingredients

• 12 large pasta shells, cooked and drained
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mozzarella, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef mixture and place them in a greased baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

How to Serve Beef and Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce

Serve the stuffed shells hot out of the oven. You can pair them with a simple green salad or garlic bread to make a complete meal. Adding some grated Parmesan cheese on top can enhance the flavor even more.

How to Store Beef and Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce

If you have leftovers, store the stuffed shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them, either baked or unbaked. To freeze, place the shells in a freezer-safe dish with marinara sauce on top. They can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Tips to Make Beef and Ricotta-Stuffed Shells in Creamy Sauce

• Make sure not to overcook the pasta shells; they should be al dente since they will bake in the oven.
• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
• For a little kick, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce or the filling.

Variation

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want a vegetarian version, use spinach or sautéed mushrooms instead of meat. You can also try different types of cheeses for the filling or sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance. Just assemble the shells and cover them with marinara sauce, then refrigerate. Bake them when you are ready to serve.

2. Can I use a different type of sauce?
Absolutely! You can use Alfredo sauce or pesto sauce instead of marinara for a different flavor.

3. What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a similar texture and taste. Just blend it a bit to make it smoother.