Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
Calling all pasta lovers! This indulgent recipe combines the richness of beef-stuffed shells with a lusciously creamy ricotta filling that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 box jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions, then stuff each shell with the beef mixture and ricotta filling.
- Place the stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Popular questions:
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Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use fresh herbs like oregano for a more vibrant flavor.
Q: Can I freeze the stuffed shells before baking?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed shells ahead of time and freeze them before baking for a convenient meal prep option.
Helpful tips:
- Add some chopped spinach or kale to the ricotta filling for an extra nutritious boost.
- Sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for a spicy kick.
Expert Secrets:
- Make sure to season the beef mixture well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor of the dish.
- For a creamier filling, mix in a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese with the ricotta.