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Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Comfort Food Classic

  • Author: Andy

Description

Looking for a meal that’s both hearty and indulgent? Creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells pasta checks all the boxes for a satisfying family dinner. Combining ricotta cheese, savory ground beef, and jumbo pasta shells baked to perfection, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. Not only is it rich in flavor, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks.

 

Ingredients

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Comfort Food Classic

Looking for a meal that’s both hearty and indulgent? Creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells pasta checks all the boxes for a satisfying family dinner. Combining ricotta cheese, savory ground beef, and jumbo pasta shells baked to perfection, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. Not only is it rich in flavor, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks.

If you’re wondering how to elevate your pasta dishes, start by learning how to choose the best pasta. The quality and type of pasta you use can significantly enhance your cooking.

Ingredients Breakdown

Every bite of this dish delivers a perfect balance of creamy filling and saucy goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Primary Ingredients:

  • Jumbo pasta shells: Sturdy and large enough to hold the filling.
  • Ricotta cheese: Fresh ricotta is essential for a creamy texture.
  • Ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory element.

Secondary Ingredients:

  • Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • Mozzarella cheese for the topping
  • Garlic, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil

For added health benefits, consider using fresh dairy products. Learn more about the health benefits of ricotta cheese and how it contributes to a balanced diet.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a foolproof pasta dish that’s guaranteed to impress.

1. Prep the Pasta Shells

  • Boil jumbo shells in salted water until al dente.
  • Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and lay them flat to cool.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture

  • In a skillet, brown ground beef with minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
  • Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

3. Prepare the Ricotta Filling

  • Mix ricotta cheese with grated Parmesan, one beaten egg, and chopped basil.
  • Stir in the cooled beef mixture for a rich and savory filling.

4. Stuff the Shells

  • Use a spoon or piping bag to fill the pasta shells with the ricotta-beef mixture.

5. Assemble the Dish

  • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  • Arrange the stuffed shells, then cover them with more marinara and shredded mozzarella.

6. Bake to Perfection

  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

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Find it online: //us.thekitchengulp.com/creamy-ricotta-beef-stuffed-shells-pasta-a-comfort-food-classic/