When it comes to hearty Italian-inspired comfort food, few dishes can compete with Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling. Jumbo pasta shells are stuffed with a rich ricotta mixture, nestled in a savory beef marinara sauce, then topped with mozzarella and Parmesan before being baked until bubbly and golden.
This dish is a perfect choice for family dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. It combines creamy, cheesy indulgence with the hearty satisfaction of beef and pasta — all baked into one irresistible dish.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 12 jumbo pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Pasta
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta shells until al dente. Drain, rinse under cool water, and set aside.
Step 2 – Prepare the Beef Sauce
In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
Step 3 – Make the Ricotta Filling
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Step 4 – Assemble the Shells
Fill each cooled pasta shell with the ricotta mixture. Arrange stuffed shells in a greased baking dish. Spoon beef marinara sauce over the shells, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 5 – Bake
Cover dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Step 6 – Serve
Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley, then serve warm.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4–5
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & Cheesy – The ricotta filling makes every bite luscious.
- Hearty & Satisfying – Beef marinara sauce adds richness and depth.
- Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleasing pasta bake for all ages.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Can be assembled ahead and baked later.
Tips and Variations
- Make Ahead: Assemble stuffed shells up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
- Freeze for Later: Freeze unbaked stuffed shells; bake from frozen by adding 10–15 minutes.
- Spinach Ricotta: Add chopped spinach to the ricotta mixture for extra nutrition.
- Cheese Lovers: Add provolone or fontina along with mozzarella.
- Sauce Variation: Use a spicy arrabbiata sauce instead of marinara for a kick.
What to Serve with Beef-Stuffed Shells
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- A crisp Caesar salad or garden salad
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli
- A glass of Chianti or sparkling water with lemon
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 34 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 5 g
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey or even Italian sausage works well.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Skip the beef and use a vegetable marinara or sautéed mushrooms instead.
What pasta works best?
Jumbo shells are traditional, but manicotti tubes also work.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes. Simply use a larger baking dish and double the ingredients.
Conclusion
These Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are the ultimate baked pasta comfort food. With creamy ricotta, savory beef sauce, and melty mozzarella, every bite is rich and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
