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Close-up of savory beef and ricotta filled pasta shells topped with fresh herbs, served on a rustic plate

Savory Beef and Ricotta Shells: A Deliciously Creamy Twist

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Savory Beef and Ricotta Shells is a rich and creamy pasta dish that combines tender pasta shells filled with a flavorful beef and ricotta mixture. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and hearty flavors, making it an ideal choice for a comforting family dinner or entertaining guests.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (12 oz) large pasta shells
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta shells in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and chopped herbs if desired. Add the cooked beef mixture and combine thoroughly.
  4. Fill each cooked shell with the beef and ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag. Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • For a softer shell, cook a minute longer than al dente.
  • You can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble just before baking.
  • Ensure pasta shells are evenly filled to prevent uneven baking.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Standard

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 shell (approximately 1/6 of the dish)
  • Calories: 450 Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg