Print
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
Ricotta Beef Shells Recipe - Easy and Delicious Pasta Dish

Ricotta Beef Shells Recipe – Easy and Delicious Pasta Dish

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

 

  • 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.

Equipment

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.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/ricotta-beef-shells-recipe-easy-and-delicious-pasta-dish/