Delectable Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever savored a dish that perfectly combines rich flavors and comforting textures? Beef stuffed shells with rich ricotta filling are just that kind of meal. Imagine large pasta shells filled to the brim with a savory beef mixture, complemented by a creamy, velvety ricotta. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to the table for what promises to be a delightful dining experience.

This dish has been a family favorite for years, often making an appearance during cozy gatherings and special occasions. Each bite offers a symphony of flavors, from the tender beef to the fresh herbs that elevate this classic Italian comfort food. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a casual weeknight meal, these stuffed shells never fail to impress. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable flavor journey that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Key Ingredients For Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Large Pasta Shells: These sturdy shells serve as the perfect vessel for holding all the delicious fillings.
• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for the filling; it provides great flavor without excessive grease.
• Ricotta Cheese: Fresh ricotta adds creaminess and texture to the filling, making it rich and satisfying.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully over the stuffed shells, creating a gooey and delicious topping.
• Fresh Spinach: Adding spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and freshness to the dish.
• Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara sauce enhances flavors; opt for one that’s thick and chunky.
• Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs will infuse your filling with classic Italian flavors.

For the Sauce:

• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan sprinkled on top adds a nutty flavor and golden crust when baked.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, cook the large pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them gently and set aside on a towel.

Second Step: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat before proceeding.

Third Step: Mix Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine cooked beef with ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.

Fourth Step: Fill Shells

Spoon generous portions of the beef and ricotta mixture into each cooked shell. Arrange them in a baking dish coated lightly with marinara sauce at the bottom.

Fifth Step: Add Sauce and Cheese

Once all shells are filled and arranged in the dish, pour remaining marinara sauce over them. Sprinkle the rest of mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan on top for extra flavor.

Sixth Step: Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Transfer to plates and garnish with fresh basil if desired for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cooking pasta shells just until al dente prevents them from becoming mushy when baked.
• Add Extra Flavor: Feel free to mix in other herbs like basil or oregano into your filling for added depth.
• Make Ahead: Prepare stuffed shells in advance; refrigerate them overnight before baking for convenience.

Enjoy crafting this indulgent recipe that everyone will love!

Cooking Instructions

To prepare the Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet over medium heat, brown one pound of ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and add one chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Next, stir in one cup of marinara sauce and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.

While the meat mixture cools, cook one package of jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and rinse the shells under cold water to stop the cooking process.

In a separate bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese, one egg, half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and a handful of chopped fresh parsley. Mix until well-blended and creamy.

Now it’s time to assemble! Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each shell with the beef mixture and then scoop in a generous amount of the ricotta filling. Place the stuffed shells in the baking dish seam-side up. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling makes for an impressive meal. Serve these delightful shells alongside:

• A side garden salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Crispy garlic bread complements this hearty dish perfectly.
• A glass of red wine elevates your dining experience with rich flavors.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers from your Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking. Simply assemble as directed but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking as per instructions.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying yet balanced meal option. The dish provides protein from both beef and ricotta cheese while offering carbohydrates from pasta. To make it lighter, consider using lean ground beef or adding more vegetables into your filling mix.

FAQs :

What is the best way to reheat Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling?

To reheat your Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling without losing moisture, cover them with aluminum foil in an oven-safe dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave; just place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a damp paper towel to retain moisture while reheating.

Can I make Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling up to two days in advance. Assemble everything except for baking it, then cover it well with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake directly from the fridge; however, you may need to adjust cooking times slightly since they will be cold when placed in the oven.

Is there a vegetarian version of Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling?

Yes! To create a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or spinach mixed with additional ricotta cheese for added creaminess. You can also include other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor while keeping that rich ricotta filling that everyone loves.

Can I use different types of cheese in my Beef Stuffed Shells With Rich Ricotta Filling?

Certainly! While ricotta is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses such as cottage cheese for a lighter option or even goat cheese for tanginess. Mixing different cheeses can enhance flavor profiles while maintaining that creamy texture essential for stuffed shells.