Description
Ricotta beef stuffed shells deliver a mouthwatering Italian-American comfort classic brimming with rich flavors and hearty satisfaction. Melted cheese, seasoned ground beef, and pasta shells create a delicious meal that welcomes you to savor each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein:
- 20 large pasta shells
- 1 pound (1 lb) lean ground beef
Cheese and Binding Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
Herbs, Seasonings, and Sauce:
- 2 1/2 cups tomato basil sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Warm the oven to 375F (190C) to create an ideal cooking environment for the pasta dish.
- Immerse pasta shells in generously salted boiling water, cooking until they reach a tender al dente texture. Carefully drain and allow to cool slightly.
- In a skillet over medium heat, transform ground beef into a rich brown color. Incorporate minced garlic and oregano, sautéing until the aromatics release their fragrant essence. Remove from heat once thoroughly cooked.
- Combine the cooled seasoned beef with creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, sharp Pecorino Romano, a whisked egg, and a delicate balance of salt and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Create a flavorful foundation by spreading tomato basil sauce across the bottom of a baking dish.
- Delicately stuff each pasta shell with the robust beef and cheese mixture, arranging them snugly within the prepared dish.
- Lavish the shells with remaining tomato sauce, then crown with a generous sprinkle of additional mozzarella cheese.
- Shield the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling masterpiece.
- Allow the dish to rest briefly, then enhance with a scattering of freshly chopped parsley. Serve while warm and inviting.
Notes
- Use whole wheat shells for a healthier twist, adding extra fiber and nutrients to the dish.
- Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent excess grease and ensure a crisp, clean flavor profile.
- Allow ricotta mixture to rest for 10 minutes before stuffing to enhance flavor melding and texture consistency.
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for lighter, alternative protein options that work beautifully in this recipe.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 395 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg