Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling!

Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling is a delicious and comforting dish. Here’s a simple recipe to help you make it:

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried basil)

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 16-20 large pasta shells (depending on the size of your pan)

• Salt for pasta water

Instructions:

1. Cook the Shells:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

   • Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

   • Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Once cool, stir in the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and garlic powder (if using). Stir and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. Stuff the Shells:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • Spoon the beef and ricotta filling into each cooked pasta shell, using about 1-2 tablespoons of filling per shell.

5. Assemble the Dish:

   • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

   • Place the stuffed shells in the dish, arranging them in a single layer.

   • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are all covered.

6. Bake:

   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and bubble.

7. Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh basil or Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling! Perfect for a cozy family dinner.