Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta: A Comforting Italian Classic
Stuffed shells pasta is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines tender pasta shells, a creamy ricotta filling, hearty beef, and a flavorful marinara sauce. Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is perfect for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or as a meal-prep option for the week. The layers of flavors and textures make it irresistible, and it’s easier to prepare than you might think. Let’s break down the recipe step by step.
Ingredients
For the stuffed shells:
- 20 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the sauce:
- 3 cups (750 ml) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
For garnish:
- Fresh basil (chopped)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Method
1. Cook the Pasta Shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
