Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

You might find that Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells offer a satisfying combination of flavors and textures, making them a go-to option for family dinners. The creamy ricotta paired with savory ground beef creates a filling meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. As you explore the nuances of this dish, you’ll discover its rich history and the various ways it can be adapted to suit your taste. But before you decide how to make it your own, let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish truly stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’re going to love this recipe for Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells because it combines delicious flavors with impressive nutritional benefits. Each serving packs 12.9 grams of protein, helping you meet your daily intake goals. Plus, the dish is rich in vitamins B6, B12, A, and C, which promote overall health. The high zinc content supports your immune system and reproductive health while lowering cardiovascular risks. At just 141 calories per serving, with a balanced mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, it’s a wholesome meal. The High Protein Stuffed Shells feature a turkey, spinach, and cheese filling, making them a nutritious option as well.

The recipe’s versatility means you can choose various fillings to suit your taste preferences. You can even make it gluten-free if needed. The shells store well, making leftovers convenient for busy days.

When preparing, remember to brown the ground beef to enhance flavor and use lean beef to avoid a runny filling. Cooking the pasta al dente guarantees the perfect texture.

Lastly, the key ingredients—ground beef, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and mozzarella—work together to create a rich and satisfying dish. With its crowd-pleasing nature, even those hesitant about cottage cheese will likely enjoy this recipe. Enjoy cooking!

History

Stuffed pasta’s rich history dates back centuries, with its origins rooted in ancient Eurasian traditions. You might be surprised to learn that the earliest evidence of stuffed pasta in Italy appears in the 12th century, when Bolognese families mentioned tortellorum. A notable early recipe can be found in the Libro della Cocina, written in the late 14th century. Initially, these pastas were filled with meat, making them a luxurious dish reserved for special occasions.

As you explore the evolution of stuffed pasta, you’ll notice that it likely originated in Northern Italy. Here, two main types emerged: ravioli, which are flat, and tortellini, shaped like small hats. Each Italian region adapted these shapes and fillings to reflect local ingredients and traditions. For instance, Emilia-Romagna is famous for tortellini, while Sardinia offers its unique Culurgiones. This diversity mirrors the broader Eurasian culinary practices that have influenced stuffed dumplings around the world.

When Italian immigrants arrived in the United States in the early 20th century, they introduced these delicious dishes, adjusting recipes to suit American tastes.

Today, you’ll find variations worldwide, from Polish pierogi to Chinese wontons, showcasing the global love for stuffed pasta.

Recipe

Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells

If you’re seeking a comforting and hearty dish to impress family and friends, search no more than Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells. This delightful recipe combines jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, seasoned ground beef, and topped with rich spaghetti sauce and gooey mozzarella. The baking time of just 30 minutes makes it a convenient option for any meal.

It’s the perfect meal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily customize the filling by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables, and it can easily be made ahead of time for convenience.

Once you take this cheesy, savory dish out of the oven, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone enthusiastic to dig in.

Ingredients:
– 12 oz package Jumbo Shells
– 1-2 pounds ground beef
– 30 ounce container whole milk ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 15-30 ounces ricotta cheese
– 16-28 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated and divided
– 2-3 jars or 24-28 ounces spaghetti sauce
– Chopped basil leaves
– Garlic, minced or powdered
– Salt and pepper

Instructions:

Begin by cooking the jumbo shells according to the package directions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside to cool.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and then stir in the spaghetti sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, chopped basil, minced garlic (or powdered), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Add half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese to the ricotta mixture. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
To fill the shells, use a ziplock bag with one corner cut off to pipe the cheese mixture into each cooked shell.
Preheat your oven to 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a 13×9 inch baking dish, ladle a bit of spaghetti sauce onto the bottom to prevent sticking. Place the filled shells seam side up in the dish.
Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the filled shells and top with the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted. If desired, use the broiler for a few minutes to achieve a golden-brown top.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells hot!

Extra Tips:

For the best flavor, consider adding some sautéed onions or bell peppers to the ground beef while browning it. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can easily substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

Additionally, for a bit of heat, feel free to mix in some red pepper flakes into the cheese filling or spaghetti sauce. This dish can also be made ahead of time; simply assemble and refrigerate it before baking, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

When planning your next meal, consider the delightful experience of serving Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells. This dish not only tastes great but also pairs well with a variety of side options. You might choose crispy onion rings or stuffed peppers for a fun twist. Avocado fries and deviled eggs can also add a unique touch to your meal.

For a healthier balance, think about salads like Cobb, Quinoa, or Italian Salad. Roasted carrots or steamed broccoli are excellent vegetable sides that keep things nutritious. The crunchy and crispy texture of onion rings complements the stuffed shells beautifully, adding an enjoyable contrast.

To enhance the dish, make sure you brown the ground beef properly for a rich flavor, and use lean beef to keep the filling light. Layering marinara sauce at the bottom and top of the baking dish guarantees even flavor, while a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese creates a delicious, gooey crust.

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. By mixing and matching sides, you can create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.

FAQ

If you’re looking for answers to common questions about preparing Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells, you’ve come to the right place.

First, when cooking the shells, follow the package directions and aim for al dente, since they’ll finish cooking in the oven. It’s a good idea to cook a few extra shells, just in case any break during the process.

For the meat sauce, brown your ground beef and mix it with marinara sauce. Adding seasoned ground meat to the marinara enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

When preparing the ricotta filling, combine ricotta cheese with eggs, herbs, garlic, and any other cheeses you like. Spread some marinara sauce at the bottom of your 9×13 inch baking dish before placing the shells seam side up to prevent leakage.

Fill each shell with about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese and herbs on top.

Preheat your oven to the specified temperature, usually around 350°F. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and heated through.

Finally, let the dish cool to room temperature before refrigerating any leftovers, ensuring they stay fresh for your next meal.