Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta – A Cheesy Delight

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish, this Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a must-try. Perfectly cooked jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a rich ricotta and beef mixture, then smothered in a creamy marinara sauce and baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly cheese topping. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prep for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy – The ricotta filling blends beautifully with the ground beef, creating a smooth, indulgent texture.
• Cheesy Goodness – A layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan takes this dish to the next level.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – You can make it ahead of time and bake when needed.
• Comfort Food at Its Best – It’s a warm, hearty meal that satisfies every craving.

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Stuffed Shells:

• 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the jumbo shells until al dente, about 9–10 minutes.
3. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
5. Drain excess grease, then stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, beaten egg, and chopped parsley.
2. Mix in the cooked beef mixture until well combined.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat marinara sauce over low heat.
2. Stir in heavy cream and red pepper flakes for a creamy, slightly spicy touch.
3. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread half of the sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Fill each pasta shell with the ricotta-beef mixture and arrange them in the dish.
4. Pour the remaining sauce over the stuffed shells.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color.
2. Serve hot and enjoy with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and good-quality cheese make a big difference in flavor.
• Make It Ahead – Assemble the dish a day before, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake when ready.
• Freeze for Later – This recipe freezes beautifully. Store in an airtight container and bake straight from frozen at 375°F for 40–45 minutes.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try adding provolone or gouda for a twist on the classic flavors.

FAQs

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes! Cottage cheese is a great substitute, though it has a slightly different texture. You can blend it for a smoother consistency.

How do I keep stuffed shells from drying out?

Make sure to use enough sauce to cover the shells, and don’t overbake. Covering with foil helps retain moisture.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or microwave in 1-minute intervals until warm.

This Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors and cheesy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family meal or a gathering, this dish will leave everyone satisfied. Try it out today and enjoy a homemade Italian classic that’s better than restaurant-quality!

Let me know how your stuffed shells turn out in the comments! Happy cooking!