Are you craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s both satisfying and delicious? Look no further than these Creamy Ricotta Mince Stuffed Shell Pasta. This dish combines the richness of ricotta cheese, the savory goodness of ground beef, and the comforting texture of pasta shells, all baked to perfection with a cheesy topping. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with family and friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe and how you can make it your own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Hearty and Satisfying
This dish is packed with protein and flavor, making it a filling meal that will leave everyone satisfied. The combination of ricotta cheese, ground beef, and pasta creates a comforting and indulgent experience.
2. Easy to Make
With just a few simple steps, this recipe is easy to prepare, even on busy weeknights. The pasta shells are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of ricotta and beef, then baked in the oven until golden and bubbly.
3. Customizable
Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste. Add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or spice it up with some red pepper flakes. You can also adjust the level of cheese to your liking.
4. Family-Friendly
This dish is a crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love. The creamy ricotta and savory beef filling, combined with the cheesy topping, make it a hit for the whole family.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep
Creamy Ricotta Mince Stuffed Shell Pasta is great for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully and can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
1 lb ground beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or go for a higher fat content for more flavor.
1 small onion, diced: Adds a sweet, aromatic base to the filling.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for adding depth and flavor.
1 cup ricotta cheese: Provides a creamy, rich texture.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a gooey, melty element.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Enhances the savory flavor.
1 egg: Helps bind the filling together.
1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a fragrant, herbal note.
1 tsp dried basil: Complements the oregano with a sweet, earthy flavor.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
For the Sauce:
2 cups marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For the cheesy topping.
Fresh parsley or basil: For garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
1.Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2.Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent.
3.Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked ground beef mixture and mix well.
Step 3: Prepare the Pasta Shells
1.Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2.Stuff the Shells: Stuff each pasta shell with the ricotta and beef mixture, placing them seam-side up in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Cheese
1.Spread the Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
2.Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Stuffed Shells
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients will give you the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Overstuff: Fill the shells generously but avoid overstuffing, as the filling will expand during baking.
Customize: Add extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Homemade Sauce: For the best flavor, consider making your own marinara sauce.
Conclusion
Creamy Ricotta Mince Stuffed Shell Pasta is a dish that combines the best of comfort food with rich, savory flavors and a satisfying texture. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to please. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any taste.
So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. And don’t forget to make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors. Happy cooking!
FAQs
Q: Can I make these stuffed shells ahead of time?A: Yes, assemble them up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Q: Can I freeze these stuffed shells?A: Absolutely! Wrap the baking dish in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Q: What type of pasta works best?A: Jumbo pasta shells are ideal, but you can use any large pasta shells you have on hand.
Q: How can I make them less cheesy?A: Reduce the amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?A: Yes, ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in this recipe, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?A: Yes, add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Q: Can I make this dish oil-free?A: Yes, use water or vegetable broth to sauté the onions and garlic.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?A: Yes, use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar or provolone, for a different flavor profile.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave.
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