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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Warm the kitchen by heating the oven to a precise 375°F, creating the perfect environment for baking.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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