Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta – Comfort Food

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is the perfect dish when you’re craving hearty Italian comfort food. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a rich mixture of seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, then nestled in marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella before being baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a dish that’s as impressive as it is satisfying—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or entertaining guests. The combination of savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta shells creates a balance of textures and flavors that’s both indulgent and comforting. Easy to prepare ahead of time and bake when ready, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that guarantees empty plates and happy faces.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Jumbo pasta shells – The perfect vessel for holding the creamy ricotta and beef filling.

Ground beef – Adds savory richness and heartiness to the filling.

Olive oil – Used to sauté the beef and aromatics.

Onion – Provides sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.

Garlic – Infuses the filling with bold, savory flavor.

Ricotta cheese – Creamy and mild, forming the base of the cheese filling.

Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, nutty flavor to balance the creaminess.

Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully on top, creating a gooey, golden finish.

Egg – Helps bind the ricotta mixture for easy stuffing.

Fresh parsley – Adds color and freshness to the filling.

Marinara sauce – A tangy, tomato-based sauce that ties the dish together.

Italian seasoning – Brings herbal notes that enhance the beef and cheese filling.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning throughout the dish.

Directions

Cook the jumbo pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, drizzling with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, then add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan, egg, parsley, and the cooled beef mixture. Stir until well blended.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta-beef mixture and arrange in the dish. Spoon more marinara sauce over the top, then sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. Preparation takes 25 minutes, and baking requires 35 minutes. In total, the dish is ready in about 1 hour.

Storage/reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or microwave in short intervals until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen—assemble the stuffed shells without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Variations and Customizations

Spinach Ricotta Filling – Add sautéed spinach to the ricotta mixture for extra nutrition.

Spicy Kick – Mix red pepper flakes or Italian sausage with the beef for more heat.

Cheese Lover’s Version – Add provolone or fontina for a richer cheese blend.

Vegetarian Option – Omit the beef and use mushrooms or zucchini instead.

White Sauce Twist – Replace marinara with Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation.

Herb-Infused – Add fresh basil or oregano to the filling for extra aroma.

Mini Portions – Use smaller shells and serve as an appetizer.

Make-Ahead Meal – Assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the stuffed shells and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I need to cook the shells before stuffing?

Yes, they should be cooked until al dente so they can hold the filling.

Can I freeze stuffed shells?

Yes, freeze them before baking for best results.

What’s the best cheese blend for this recipe?

A mix of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella gives the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese is a good substitute, though it’s less creamy.

How do I prevent the shells from sticking?

Drizzle with olive oil after boiling or spread them on a baking sheet to cool.

Conclusion

Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a hearty, cheesy, and comforting dish that brings Italian-inspired flavors to your dinner table. With its creamy filling, savory beef, and bubbly cheese topping, it’s a recipe that’s both family-friendly and impressive enough for guests. Versatile, make-ahead friendly, and endlessly customizable, this pasta bake is the kind of meal that guarantees comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

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