Go Back

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

These creamy ricotta beef stuffed shells are a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, creamy ricotta, and Italian herbs, then topped with marinara sauce and cheese for a delightful meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot
  • 1 colander
  • 1 skillet
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 aluminum foil

Ingredients
  

  • 12 jumbo pasta shells jumbo pasta shells
  • 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • Salt and pepper To taste.
  • Fresh basil For garnish (optional).

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning during the last minute of cooking. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and large egg. Mix until well combined.
  • Spoon the beef and ricotta mixture into each pasta shell, filling them generously.
  • Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top of the sauce, seam side up.
  • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbling and lightly golden.
  • Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

Notes

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
For added flavor, you can mix in some chopped spinach or mushrooms into the filling.