Description
Beef-stuffed shells with creamy ricotta filling combine jumbo pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, cheesy filling, all topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. This easy Italian-inspired dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, and freezer-friendly meals.
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat & Cook Pasta: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and let them cool slightly.
- Prepare Beef Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in ½ cup of marinara sauce. Remove from heat.
- Make Ricotta Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Fill the Shells: Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in a lightly greased baking dish.
- Assemble & Top: Spoon the beef and marinara mixture over the shells. Pour the remaining ½ cup of marinara sauce on top, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Prevent shell breakage: Cook pasta until al dente and let it cool before stuffing.
- Make-ahead option: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Freeze for later: Store unbaked stuffed shells in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
