
Ultimate Stuffed Pasta Shells with Creamy Ricotta and Bold Meat Sauce
Introduction:
Looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that combines rich flavors and comforting textures? These Stuffed Pasta Shells with Creamy Ricotta and Bold Meat Sauce are a classic Italian-inspired dish that will leave your family and guests raving. Perfectly cooked jumbo shells are filled with a cheesy ricotta mixture, topped with a robust meat sauce, and baked under a golden, melted cheese crust. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
For the Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil or parsley
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until al dente, following the package instructions.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil or parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Fill each pasta shell with 1-2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture and arrange them in the dish, open side up.
- Pour the remaining meat sauce over the shells, ensuring they are well covered.
Step 5: Add the Toppings and Bake
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the shells.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving.
- Pair with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Perfect Pasta: Cook the shells just until al dente; overcooked pasta can fall apart during stuffing and baking.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Add 10 extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser:
- Rich and Creamy Filling: The ricotta mixture melts into a velvety texture with every bite.
- Bold Meat Sauce: A robust and flavorful sauce complements the cheesy filling perfectly.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Conclusion:
These Ultimate Stuffed Pasta Shells with Creamy Ricotta and Bold Meat Sauce are the perfect comfort food to satisfy your cravings. Easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and beautifully baked, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it out today, and don’t forget to share your success in the comments below!