The Ultimate Creamy Ricotta Beef Shells Delight Recipe – Family Favorite

Ricotta beef shells offer a mouthwatering twist on classic comfort food that melts in your mouth.

Soft pasta pockets cradle a rich, savory filling that promises pure culinary bliss.

The combination brings together hearty protein and smooth, delicate cheese in unexpected harmony.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of textures and robust flavors that dance across your palate.

Warm, inviting aromas will instantly draw you into the kitchen, sparking anticipation of a truly satisfying meal.

Rustic yet sophisticated, this dish changes simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

I promise this recipe will become an instant favorite you cannot wait to share.

Explore this delectable experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Creamy Ricotta Beef Shells Delight Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C), getting ready for a mouthwatering culinary adventure.

Step 2: Prepare the Pasta

Grab a large pot and bring salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in pasta shells and cook until they’re perfectly tender but still have a slight bite. Drain the shells and let them cool down on a clean kitchen towel.

Step 3: Sizzle the Beef

• Minced garlic
• Dried oregano

Stir and cook until the beef is completely done and your kitchen smells amazing. Let the meat cool for a few minutes.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Filling

• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Pecorino Romano cheese
• Beaten egg
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix everything until it’s well incorporated and looks absolutely delicious.

Step 5: Build Your Shells

Spread a generous layer of tomato basil sauce across the bottom of a baking dish. Carefully stuff each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture, nestling them snugly in the sauce.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

Drizzle the remaining tomato basil sauce over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the extra mozzarella cheese on top, creating a tempting cheesy blanket.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes. You’re looking for a golden, bubbly cheese top that makes your mouth water.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Let the shells rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Scatter some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot.

Smart Tips for Perfect Creamy Ricotta Beef Shells Delight

• Master the Pasta Texture: Cook shells just until al dente to prevent mushiness and ensure they hold the creamy filling perfectly.
• Boost Flavor Depth: Let ground beef cool slightly before mixing with cheeses to maintain distinct meat and cheese flavors without turning gummy.
• Cheese Melting Magic: Use room temperature ricotta and mozzarella for smoother blending and more even melting throughout the dish.
• Prevent Dryness Trick: Cover with foil during initial baking to lock in moisture, then uncover to create a golden, crispy cheese topping.
• Fresh Finish Technique: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley right before serving to add a bright, herbal note and elevate the overall presentation.

Storage and Reheat Guide for Ricotta Beef Shells Delight

• Refrigerate: Store leftover beef shells in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individual portions or entire dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label container with date.
• Reheat: Warm refrigerated shells in microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, place in oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated thoroughly. Sprinkle extra cheese on top for added flavor and moisture.

What Pairs Well with Creamy Ricotta Beef Shells Delight

• Pair with Robust Red Wine: Complement the rich, meaty flavors of the beef shells with a bold Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon, cutting through the creaminess and enhancing the dish's depth.
• Crisp Salad Side: Balance the heavy pasta with a light, zesty arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, adding freshness and cutting through the richness of the cheese and beef.
• Garlic Bread Companion: Serve with crusty, buttery garlic bread to soak up the extra tomato sauce and provide a crunchy texture contrast to the soft, creamy shells.
• Italian Herb Mocktail: Create a refreshing non-alcoholic drink with sparkling water, muddled basil, and a splash of lemon to cleanse the palate between bites of the hearty pasta.

Recipe Variations for Creamy Ricotta Beef Shells Delight

• Spicy Southwest Shells: Replace oregano with taco seasoning, add diced green chilies to the beef mixture, and top with pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
• Mediterranean Lamb Shells: Swap ground beef for ground lamb, incorporate feta cheese, add chopped fresh mint, and sprinkle za'atar spice blend for a Middle Eastern flair.
• Vegetarian Mushroom Shells: Substitute beef with sautéed portobello mushrooms, mix in spinach, use ricotta, and add roasted garlic for deep, rich flavor.
• Chicken Alfredo Shells: Use ground chicken instead of beef, mix in alfredo sauce with the ricotta, and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a creamy alternative.

FAQs for Creamy Ricotta Beef Shells Delight

• Can I use a different type of pasta instead of shells?

Yes, you can substitute shells with jumbo pasta tubes or large macaroni. Just ensure the pasta is large enough to hold the beef and cheese filling.

• How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Replace ground beef with plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms. The cheese and sauce will still provide delicious flavor.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the shells a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to baking time when cooking from cold.

• What side dishes pair well with these stuffed shells?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly. These sides balance the richness of the cheesy beef shells.

Why Creamy Ricotta Beef Shells Delight Deserves a Spot on Your Table

• Experience a luxurious blend of creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella that creates an irresistibly rich and indulgent pasta dish perfect for satisfying hardcore cheese lovers.
• This recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish and requiring simple ingredients that most home cooks already have in their kitchen.
• Packed with protein from ground beef and multiple cheeses, these stuffed shells appeal to both kids and adults, making it an ideal meal for family dinners or casual gatherings that bring everyone together around the table.
• The versatile recipe allows for simple modifications like swapping ground beef for turkey, adding different herbs, or incorporating additional vegetables to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs.

What You Need for Creamy Ricotta Beef Shells Delight

• Pasta Shells: Classic pasta shape perfect for stuffing, holds filling well, and provides a delightful texture.

• Ground Beef, Minced Garlic, Dried Oregano: Flavorful protein base with traditional Italian seasoning, creates a rich and aromatic filling.

• Ricotta Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese, Pecorino Romano Cheese, Egg: Creamy and tangy cheese blend that binds the filling, adds richness and depth of flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality cheeses for best results.

• Tomato Basil Sauce, Salt, Black Pepper: Provides moisture and classic Italian flavor. Select a smooth, well-seasoned sauce for best results.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds bright color and fresh herb note to the final dish.

Creamy Ricotta Beef Shells Delight Recipe

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4.7 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Ricotta Beef Shells Delight brings Italian comfort to your dinner table with rich, cheesy pasta perfectly nestled with seasoned ground beef. Each forkful promises a delicious blend of tender pasta shells, creamy ricotta, and savory meat that will satisfy your most hearty cravings.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) lean ground beef
• 1 large egg, beaten

Cheese:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese

Pasta and Sauce:

• 20 large pasta shells
• 2 ½ cups tomato basil sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Warm the kitchen by heating the oven to a precise 375°F, creating the perfect environment for baking.
2. Immerse pasta shells in generously salted boiling water, cooking until they reach a tender al dente texture. Carefully drain and set aside to cool, allowing them to rest.
3. Transform ground beef in a sizzling skillet over medium heat. Introduce minced garlic and aromatic dried oregano midway through cooking, stirring continuously until the meat becomes thoroughly browned and releases its rich, savory fragrance.
4. Craft the luxurious filling by gently combining the cooled seasoned beef with creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, sharp Pecorino Romano, a beaten egg, and a whisper of salt and pepper. Blend the ingredients until they harmonize into a cohesive mixture.
5. Create a delectable foundation by spreading a layer of tomato basil sauce across the bottom of a baking dish. Meticulously stuff each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture, nestling them snugly in the sauce-covered vessel.
6. Lavish the stuffed shells with the remaining tomato basil sauce, ensuring each shell is generously coated. Sprinkle the final layer of mozzarella cheese, creating a tempting blanket of dairy goodness.
7. Seal the dish with aluminum foil, transforming the oven into a culinary sanctuary for 25 minutes. Unveil the foil and continue baking until the cheese achieves a golden, bubbling perfection.
8. Allow the shells a moment to settle and cool slightly. Shower with freshly chopped parsley, adding a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately, presenting a dish that promises comfort and flavor.

Notes

• Prep ahead by cooking beef and boiling pasta in advance to save time during assembly.
• Ensure shells are slightly cooled before filling to prevent egg from scrambling in mixture.
• Use freshly grated cheeses for maximum flavor and smoother melting texture.
• Allow dish to rest 5-10 minutes after baking to help shells set and make serving easier.
• This recipe freezes beautifully for up to 3 months – perfect for meal prepping or unexpected guests.
• Choose lean ground beef (90/10) to reduce excess grease and keep filling light and creamy.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg