Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

This hearty dish combines tender pasta shells, a savory beef filling, and creamy ricotta for a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for any night!

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Yield
Serves 6

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Ingredients

For the Pasta Shells:

• 1 box (12 oz) jumbo pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Beef Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce

For the Ricotta Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)

For the Sauce and Topping:

• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until just al dente according to package instructions.
2. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

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Step 2: Prepare the Beef Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the ground beef, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
4. Stir in 1/4 cup tomato sauce and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

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Step 3: Make the Ricotta Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until smooth.
2. Fold in the cooled beef mixture.

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Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
3. Stuff each cooked shell with the beef-ricotta mixture and place it seam-side up in the baking dish.
4. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.

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Step 5: Bake the Dish

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

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Step 6: Serve

1. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories, 475 | Fat, 22g | Saturated Fat, 11g | Carbohydrates, 36g | Fiber, 3g | Sugars, 8g | Protein, 30g

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These Beef-Stuffed Pasta Shells with Creamy Ricotta are a surefire hit for dinner! The savory beef filling, rich ricotta, and gooey cheese topping make every bite irresistible. Pair with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal!