Creamy Shells Pasta (Print)
Tender pasta shells filled with rich ricotta and beef, topped with savory tomato sauce and melty cheese for a cozy meal.
# Ingredients:
01 -
20 jumbo pasta shells: They're the perfect size for stuffing.
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1 pound ground beef (lean): Packs in protein and hearty goodness.
03 -
1 cup ricotta cheese: Makes the filling smooth and creamy.
04 -
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, split: Creates a melty, cheesy top layer.
05 -
½ cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated: Brings a sharp, tangy kick.
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1 large egg, whisked: Holds the filling together nicely.
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2 ½ cups tomato-basil sauce: Gives the dish a tangy, rich base.
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1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides a warm, herby touch.
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2 minced garlic cloves: Adds a bold, aromatic note.
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Salt and ground black pepper, to taste: Brings out all the flavors.
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Chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish): A pop of freshness on top.
# Steps:
01 -
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat up.
02 -
Boil the pasta shells in salted water till they're just firm to the bite. Drain them, then let them chill for a bit.
03 -
Heat up a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef. Toss in minced garlic and oregano, stirring till fragrant, then turn off the heat.
04 -
Combine the cooled-off beef, ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Pecorino, the beaten egg, plus some salt and pepper in a bowl.
05 -
Spoon 1 cup of the tomato-basil sauce across the bottom of a baking dish.
06 -
Take each pasta shell and fill it with the cheesy beef mixture. Arrange them snugly in the dish in a single layer.
07 -
Top the shells with the remaining sauce and sprinkle the other ½ cup of mozzarella over them.
08 -
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Take off the foil and bake another 10 minutes till the cheese bubbles and browns lightly.
09 -
Let the dish rest for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and dig in while it’s nice and warm.
# Notes:
01 -
Cheese-loaded pasta shells packed with creamy beef filling, this comforting dish is full of satisfying, bold flavors.
02 -
Great for weeknight meals, hearty and filling with gooey, melty cheese and protein-packed ground beef.