--- title: Ricotta Beef Shells Recipe - Easy and Delicious Pasta Dish url: https://optimalrecipes.com/ricotta-beef-shells-recipe-easy-and-delicious-pasta-dish/ author: Maria Jannet published: 2024-09-21 updated: 2024-09-21 image: https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Ricotta-Beef-Shells-Recipe.webp categories: ["Dinner Ideas"] site: Optimal Recipes --- # Ricotta Beef Shells Recipe - Easy and Delicious Pasta Dish > Welcome, food lovers! Today, we have a delightful and hearty recipe that’s perfect for anyone who craves a comforting and easy-to-make meal. Ricotta Beef Shells is a dish that brings the best of Italian cuisine to your table with its rich combination of flavors and textures. Whether you're a fan... ![Ricotta Beef Shells Recipe - Easy and Delicious Pasta Dish](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Ricotta-Beef-Shells-Recipe.webp) ## Article Welcome, food lovers! Today, we have a delightful and hearty recipe that’s perfect for anyone who craves a comforting and easy-to-make meal. *Ricotta Beef Shells* is a dish that brings the best of Italian cuisine to your table with its rich combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian dishes or just love experimenting with *stuffed pasta recipes*, this dish will be your new favorite. ## Introduction The combination of ricotta and beef, stuffed into large pasta shells, covered in savory tomato basil sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella is a meal that will satisfy the entire family. This *stuffed pasta recipe* originated from Italy and has evolved into a comforting, go-to dish for weeknights or special dinners. Easy to prepare and incredibly delicious, *Ricotta Beef Shells* is a must-try for those who love the richness of a *stuffed pasta dish* and the simplicity of home-cooked meals. ## Ingredients for Ricotta Beef Shells To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients: - 20 large pasta shells - 1 lb lean ground beef - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided - ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese - 1 large egg, beaten - 2 ½ cups tomato basil sauce - 1 tsp dried oregano - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Salt and black pepper, to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) *Optional Substitutions*: - Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option. - Use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. - Substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan if preferred. ## How to Make Ricotta Beef Shells – Step by Step ### Step1: Preparing the Pasta and Filling - Boil the pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set them aside to cool slightly. - Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and dried oregano, cooking until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly. ### Step2: Combining the Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, the beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined. ### Step3: Assembling the Dish - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of tomato basil sauce evenly across the bottom of a baking dish. - Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, placing them into the baking dish as you go. - Pour the remaining 1 ½ cups of tomato basil sauce over the stuffed shells. Then, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top. ### Step4: Baking the Dish - Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. ### Step5: Serving - Garnish the baked shells with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. ## Helpful Tips for Ricotta Beef Shells - Ricotta Beef Shells Tips: Ensure that the pasta shells are cooked al dente so they hold their shape when baked. Pro Tip: Let the beef cool before adding the ricotta to prevent curdling. - To enhance the flavor, use fresh mozzarella instead of pre-shredded cheese for a creamier topping. ## Cooking Tips for the Best Ricotta Beef Shells For the ultimate *stuffed pasta recipe* success, here are a few tricks: - Best Ricotta Beef Shells Hack: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta mixture to deepen the flavor. - Use a glass baking dish for even heat distribution. - To prevent the pasta from sticking, lightly coat the shells in olive oil after boiling. ## Serving Suggestions for Ricotta Beef Shells Serve *Ricotta Beef Shells* with a fresh, crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, pairs beautifully with the rich tomato and cheese flavors. Looking for something lighter? Try a side of steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded, nutritious dinner. ## Nutritional Information ### Nutritional info for Ricotta Beef Shells (per serving): - Calories: 450 - Fat: 24g - Carbohydrates: 28g - Protein: 30g - Vitamin A: 18% - Calcium: 25% ## Storage and Leftovers for Ricotta Beef Shells To store *Ricotta Beef Shells*, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, wrap the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, place the shells in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option. ## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Ricotta Beef Shells - Can I make Ricotta Beef Shells ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. - Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Parmesan, asiago, or fontina can be used as alternatives to Pecorino Romano. - What other meats can I use? Ground chicken, turkey, or Italian sausage are great substitutions for beef. - Can I freeze Ricotta Beef Shells? Yes, freeze the assembled, unbaked shells for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen by adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the bake time. ## Related Recipes for Ricotta Beef Shells Lovers - Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread – A Hearty Meal - Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – Easy & Tasty ## Conclusion Now that you know how to make these delicious *Ricotta Beef Shells*, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is not only comforting but also perfect for any occasion. Let us know how your *stuffed pasta recipe* turned out and feel free to share any creative twists you added. We can’t wait to hear from you! **Enjoy your cooking adventure and happy eating!** clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon ![](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Ricotta-Beef-Shells-Recipe-150x150.webp) ## Ricotta Beef Shells Recipe – Easy and Delicious Pasta Dish No reviews - Author: Patri [Print Recipe](#) [Pin Recipe](https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/bookmarklet/?url=%23) ### Description Welcome, food lovers! Today, we have a delightful and hearty recipe that’s perfect for anyone who craves a comforting and easy-to-make meal. *Ricotta Beef Shells* is a dish that brings the best of Italian cuisine to your table with its rich combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian dishes or just love experimenting with *stuffed pasta recipes*, this dish will be your new favorite. ### Ingredients Scale 1x2x3x   - 20 large pasta shells - 1 lb lean ground beef - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided - ½ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese - 1 large egg, beaten - 2 ½ cups tomato basil sauce - 1 tsp dried oregano - 2 cloves garlic, minced - Salt and black pepper, to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) *Optional Substitutions*: - Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option. - Use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version. - Substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan if preferred. ### Instructions ## ### Step 1: Preparing the Pasta and Filling - Boil the pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set them aside to cool slightly. - Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and dried oregano, cooking until fragrant. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly. ### Step 2: Combining the Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, the beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined. ### Step 3: Assembling the Dish - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of tomato basil sauce evenly across the bottom of a baking dish. - Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture, placing them into the baking dish as you go. - Pour the remaining 1 ½ cups of tomato basil sauce over the stuffed shells. Then, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top. ### Step 4: Baking the Dish - Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. ### Step 5: Serving - Garnish the baked shells with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm. ### Notes - Ensure that the pasta shells are cooked al dente so they hold their shape when baked. Pro Tip: Let the beef cool before adding the ricotta to prevent curdling. - To enhance the flavor, use fresh mozzarella instead of pre-shredded cheese for a creamier topping. ### Did you make this recipe? Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made! window.trCommon={"minRating":6,"ajaxurl":"https:\/\/optimalrecipes.com\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php","ratingNonce":"","postId":0}; --- **Source**: [Ricotta Beef Shells Recipe - Easy and Delicious Pasta Dish](https://optimalrecipes.com/ricotta-beef-shells-recipe-easy-and-delicious-pasta-dish/) **Site**: Optimal Recipes - https://optimalrecipes.com/ **Author**: Maria Jannet *If you cite this recipe, please link to: https://optimalrecipes.com/ricotta-beef-shells-recipe-easy-and-delicious-pasta-dish/*