Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Ricotta Filling

Ingredients

• Jumbo pasta shells – 20-25 shells
• Ground beef – 1 lb (450g)
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Tomato sauce – 2 cups
• Ricotta cheese – 1 ½ cups
• Mozzarella cheese – 1 ½ cups, shredded
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
• Egg – 1 large
• Italian seasoning – 1 tsp
• Fresh basil – ¼ cup, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper – to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta Shells

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook until just al dente, according to package instructions.
3. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Beef Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up any large chunks.
5. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Make the Ricotta Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, parmesan cheese, egg, and a bit of salt and pepper. Mix well.
2. Stir in the cooked beef mixture and mix until fully combined.

4. Assemble the Shells

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Stuff each shell with the beef and ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
4. Place the stuffed shells seam side up in the dish.

5. Add the Sauce and Cheese

1. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the stuffed shells.
2. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top.

6. Bake

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

7. Serve

• Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve hot.

Tips

• You can make the filling ahead of time and refrigerate for up to a day before assembling.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.