Stuffed shells are a classic comfort food, and this creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells recipe elevates the dish to new heights. The combination of tender pasta shells, rich beef filling, and a luscious creamy ricotta cheese topping creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, impressing your family and friends with its deliciousness and relative ease of preparation.
What Makes These Stuffed Shells So Special?
These aren't your average stuffed shells. We're taking this classic dish and amping it up with a few key ingredients and techniques:
- Flavorful Beef Filling: We're not just using ground beef; we're building a complex and savory filling with sauteed onions, garlic, and a touch of Italian seasoning. This adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
- Creamy Ricotta Topping: Forget a simple ricotta layer! We're incorporating a creamy, dreamy mixture of ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream for an extra indulgent experience.
- Perfectly Cooked Shells: We'll ensure the shells are cooked al dente, retaining their shape and texture while absorbing the delicious sauce.
- Melted Mozzarella Magic: A generous layer of melted mozzarella cheese on top adds a beautiful golden brown crust and a satisfying stretchy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This section addresses common questions people have about making creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells.
1. Can I use different types of pasta shells?
While jumbo pasta shells are traditional and work best for this recipe, you can experiment with other large pasta shapes, such as manicotti or even large lasagna noodles. Just be sure they are large enough to hold the filling comfortably.
2. How can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! The beef filling can be prepared a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the stuffed shells.
3. What kind of cheese should I use for the topping?
While the recipe calls for ricotta and mozzarella, you can experiment with other cheeses. A blend of provolone and Parmesan would also be delicious. Feel free to adjust the cheese to your liking!
4. How do I prevent the shells from breaking?
Gently handle the cooked shells. Be careful when filling them to avoid overstuffing, which can cause them to crack. If a shell breaks, don't worry—just use it as a smaller shell. The sauce will help hold everything together.
5. Can I freeze these stuffed shells?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked stuffed shells. Assemble the dish as directed, but before baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a little extra time to ensure it's heated through.
The Recipe: Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells
(Yields: 6-8 servings) (Prep time: 30 minutes) (Cook time: 45 minutes)
Ingredients:
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For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Ricotta Mixture:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Other Ingredients:
- 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
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Cook the Shells: Cook the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.
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Prepare the Beef Filling: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
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Assemble the Stuffed Shells: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the beef sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef mixture and then spoon a generous amount of the ricotta mixture over the top. Arrange the filled shells in the baking dish.
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Bake: Pour any remaining beef sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
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Serve: Let the stuffed shells cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
This creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The rich flavors and comforting texture will make it a new family favorite. Remember to adjust seasonings to your personal preference and enjoy the delicious results!
