Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

This hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish features jumbo pasta shells generously stuffed with a flavorful mix of seasoned ground beef and rich, creamy ricotta cheese. Baked with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, these beef-stuffed shells offer a perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and satisfying flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week. It combines the robust flavors of Italian cuisine with the simplicity of an easy-to-make baked pasta dish. The creamy ricotta filling paired with savory beef and bubbly cheese makes it irresistible to both kids and adults.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Jumbo pasta shells
• Ground beef
• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Marinara sauce
• Egg
• Fresh parsley
• Garlic
• Onion
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook jumbo shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
5. Once the meat is slightly cooled, mix it with the ricotta filling.
6. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Fill each cooked shell with the beef and ricotta mixture and arrange in the dish.
7. Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute beef with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or lentils.
• Spicy: Add crushed red pepper or use hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in provolone or fontina for a more indulgent filling.
• Low-Carb: Use zucchini boats instead of pasta shells.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through. To freeze, arrange stuffed shells in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the cook time.

FAQs

How do I prevent the pasta shells from tearing?

Cook them al dente and handle gently during stuffing. Rinse with cold water to stop cooking and make them easier to handle.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate overnight. Bake just before serving.

What kind of marinara sauce works best?

Use a high-quality store-bought marinara or make your own with garlic, crushed tomatoes, and herbs.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, though it will slightly alter the texture. Drain it well before mixing.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta shells available at many grocery stores.

How do I freeze stuffed shells properly?

Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

What other meats can I use?

Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage are excellent substitutes for beef.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely. Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms make great additions.

How do I make the dish more saucy?

Add extra marinara between and on top of the shells before baking.

What side dishes go well with this meal?

Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or steamed vegetables.

Conclusion

Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish that combines classic Italian ingredients into a comforting, cheesy bake. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or freezing it for future meals, this recipe is versatile, delicious, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Print