Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling
Who’s ready for a delicious and comforting dinner idea? These Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling are sure to please your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 box jumbo pasta shells
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions:
- 1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
- 2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, then set aside to cool.
- 3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, then drain any excess grease.
- 4. In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- 5. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef mixture and place in a baking dish.
- 6. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese.
- 7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
Popular questions:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
- Absolutely, fresh herbs can be used in place of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the stuffed shells ahead of time and bake them when ready to serve.
Helpful tips:
- 1. Make sure to season the filling mixture generously for maximum flavor.
- 2. Top the stuffed shells with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color.
- 3. Add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added veggies.
Expert Secrets:
- 1. Cook the pasta shells just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
- 2. Let the stuffed shells rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- 3. Use a good quality marinara sauce for the best flavor in this dish.