Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Craving a comforting and satisfying Italian dinner? Look no further than beef-stuffed shells! This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family meals or impressing guests. Big pasta shells overflowing with a savory beef and creamy ricotta filling, all baked to bubbly perfection – what’s not to love?

What Makes These Beef-Stuffed Shells So Good?

There’s something truly special about this dish. It’s the combination of textures and flavors that makes it irresistible. The tender pasta shells provide a perfect vessel for the rich, meaty filling, and the creamy ricotta adds a delightful lightness. We’ll guide you through making your own version of this classic, step-by-step.

The Star: Ground Beef and Flavor Base

The heart of our stuffed shells lies in the ground beef filling. Using a good quality ground beef is key to achieving that rich, savory flavor. We’ll also build a delicious flavor base using onions, garlic, and Italian herbs. Don’t skimp on the herbs – they make all the difference!

• Ground Beef: Look for ground beef with a lean-to-fat ratio of 80/20 for the best flavor and texture.
• Aromatics: Sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil creates a fragrant foundation for the sauce.
• Italian Herbs: A blend of dried oregano, basil, and thyme adds that classic Italian flavor. Fresh herbs work too!

Creamy Ricotta Filling: The Secret Weapon

This isn’t just any ricotta filling! We’re making it extra creamy and flavorful with the addition of Parmesan cheese, an egg (to bind everything together), and a touch of nutmeg. The nutmeg might sound unusual, but it adds a subtle warmth that complements the other flavors beautifully. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning!

1. Combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and a pinch of nutmeg in a bowl.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Mix well until everything is combined into a smooth, creamy filling.

Assembling the Shells: A Little Bit of Love

This is where the fun begins! Once your shells are cooked al dente (important – they’ll continue to cook in the oven), and your filling is ready, you can start stuffing. Using a spoon or even a piping bag, carefully fill each shell with the ricotta and beef mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a baking dish coated with your favorite marinara sauce.

• Cook the Shells Al Dente: Overcooked shells will become mushy.
• Use a Spoon or Piping Bag: For easy and less messy stuffing.
• Arrange Neatly: Place the shells side-by-side in the baking dish.

Baking to Perfection: Cheesy Goodness

Now for the final touch: baking! Cover the stuffed shells with marinara sauce and sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese. The cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly layer of deliciousness. Bake until heated through and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tips for the Best Beef-Stuffed Shells

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente is key!
• Use High-Quality Ingredients: This makes a big difference in flavor.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Make sure your filling and sauce are perfectly seasoned to your liking.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the shells ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.

Time to Dig In!

Beef-stuffed shells are a satisfying and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With a little bit of preparation and these helpful tips, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy this classic Italian favorite!