Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta

Name: Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 12 large pasta shells; 2 cups marinara sauce; Extra mozzarella cheese for topping

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the comforting goodness of Beef-Stuffed Shells filled with a luscious, creamy ricotta mixture. This dish combines tender pasta shells with a hearty beef filling, baking to bubbly perfection in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these stuffed shells provide a delightful blend of flavors that will please both kids and adults alike.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-20T06:04:09.144Z

This dish brings together the comforting and familiar flavors of Italian cuisine, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or meal prepping for the week ahead.

A Hearty Dinner Idea

Beef-stuffed shells are a delightful twist on traditional Italian dishes, making them an excellent choice for dinner. The combination of pasta, ground beef, and a creamy ricotta filling delivers both flavor and satisfaction. Not only do these shells taste incredible, but they also provide a well-rounded meal with a variety of nutrients. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy and full.

When seeking meal options that please both children and adults, beef-stuffed shells are hard to beat. The familiar shape and comforting flavors make this dish appealing to all ages. With the addition of rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese on top, each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. It's the kind of meal that brings families together, making it an ideal choice for family nights or gatherings.

Easy and Convenient Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of beef-stuffed shells is their versatility for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch in advance to enjoy throughout the week. Simply assemble the shells and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you are ready to bake. This convenience means you can have a hearty, homemade meal ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.

Furthermore, they reheat excellently, ensuring that leftovers maintain their flavor and texture. By making a big batch, you can savor the comfort of this dish multiple times, often with very little effort. Just pop them in the oven for a quick reheat, and you’ll be ready to enjoy a warm, satisfying dinner again.

Customization and Variations

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the Beef Filling

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Ricotta Mixture

15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For Assembly

12 large pasta shells
2 cups marinara sauce
Extra mozzarella cheese for topping

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Beef-Stuffed Shells:

Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Make the Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Shells

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill each shell with the beef mixture followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture.

Assemble and Bake

Spread marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed shells on top and cover with remaining sauce. Sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese. Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly.

Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving!

Serving Suggestions

Beef-stuffed shells are a hearty dish that pairs well with various sides to create a complete meal. Serve them with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to add a refreshing crunch. Garlic bread is a delicious accompaniment too, perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce on the plate.

For a tasty boost of flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or garnishing the shells with fresh basil or extra parsley. This not only enhances the dish's presentation but elevates the overall dining experience.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your beef-stuffed shells properly can keep them tasting amazing. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When stored correctly in the refrigerator, your stuffed shells can last for up to three to four days, ensuring you can enjoy them for lunches or quick dinners.

For longer-term storage, consider freezing the assembled, unbaked shells. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, labeling them with the date. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a bit more time to ensure they heat through completely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake before serving.

→ What can I serve with Beef-Stuffed Shells?

A side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish.