Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling: A Classic Comfort Dish
Just as a warm embrace offers comfort and satisfaction, these Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are a culinary hug in a bowl. Tender jumbo pasta shells cradle a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, enriched by a smooth and luscious ricotta cheese filling. Baked in your favorite tomato sauce and often blanketed with melted mozzarella, this dish is a timeless classic that brings warmth and smiles to any table. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where comfort food is a must.
Ingredients:
12 jumbo pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
These three core ingredients form the foundation of our comforting stuffed shells. The jumbo pasta shells provide the perfect vessel for the flavorful filling, while the seasoned ground beef offers a rich, savory base, beautifully complemented by the creamy and slightly tangy ricotta cheese.
Building Layers of Flavor and Texture:
While these are the essential components, a truly satisfying Beef-Stuffed Shells dish often includes additional ingredients that elevate its flavor and create a more complex and delightful experience. Consider adding:
Tomato Sauce: Your favorite jarred or homemade tomato sauce forms the flavorful base in which the stuffed shells bake. Marinara, traditional tomato sauce, or even a meat sauce can be used.
Onion and Garlic: Diced onion and minced garlic sautéed with the ground beef add aromatic depth to the filling.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of Italian herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary enhances the savory flavor of the beef.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese added to the ricotta filling lends a salty, nutty richness.
Egg: A beaten egg mixed into the ricotta filling helps to bind the cheese and create a smoother, more cohesive texture.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella cheese sprinkled over the top of the stuffed shells before baking creates a gooey, melty, and irresistible cheesy topping.
Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh parsley or basil can be used as a garnish, adding a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
The Culinary Journey: Assembling the Stuffed Shells
Creating these comforting stuffed shells involves a few key steps that transform simple ingredients into a satisfying and flavorful meal:
Cook the Pasta Shells: Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to the package directions until they are al dente (slightly firm). Be careful not to overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the cooked shells and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. Set them aside.
Prepare the Beef Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it is cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. If desired, add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened before adding the ground beef. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Ricotta Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese (if using), and a beaten egg (if using). Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated and the filling is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add chopped fresh parsley to the ricotta mixture for extra flavor and color.
Assemble the Stuffed Shells: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your recipe (usually around 375°F or 190°C). Spread a layer of your favorite tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish (a 9×13 inch dish works well). One by one, take a cooked pasta shell and fill it generously with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or a small spatula. Then, top the ricotta filling with a spoonful of the seasoned ground beef. Arrange the filled shells in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, nestled over the tomato sauce.
Add More Sauce and Cheese: Once all the shells are stuffed and arranged in the dish, spoon the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the top of the shells. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the entire dish.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for the specified time (usually around 25-30 minutes). Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the mozzarella cheese to melt and become bubbly and lightly golden brown.
Rest and Serve: Once baked, let the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes them easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Beef-Stuffed Shells:
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente shells are easier to handle and won’t become mushy during baking.
Cool the Beef Slightly: Letting the cooked ground beef cool slightly before stuffing the shells makes the process easier.
Use a Piping Bag (Optional): For a neater presentation, you can transfer the ricotta filling to a piping bag fitted with a large tip and pipe it into the shells.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time, cover the baking dish, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Freezing: Leftover baked stuffed shells can be frozen. Let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Serving Suggestions for a Hearty Meal:
Beef-Stuffed Shells are a complete and satisfying meal on their own, but they pair well with:
Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce.
Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli or green beans add a healthy and colorful side dish.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the Italian flavors of the stuffed shells.
A Glass of Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot pairs beautifully with this dish.
Conclusion: A Timeless Dish of Comfort and Flavor
Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, hearty Italian-American cuisine. The combination of savory beef, creamy ricotta, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey melted cheese, creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing them for a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends, these stuffed shells are sure to be a beloved and memorable dish. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece that will warm hearts and fill bellies.