✔ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
✔ Cook jumbo shells 1-2 minutes less than package directions (they’ll finish cooking in the oven).
✔ Drain and let cool slightly.
✅ Slightly undercooking the shells prevents them from getting too soft while baking!
2️⃣ Make the Beef & Ricotta Filling
✔ Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
✔ Sauté onions and garlic for 2 minutes.
✔ Add ground beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
✔ Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
✔ Let cool slightly, then mix in ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and basil.
✅ The egg helps bind the filling, making it creamy yet firm when baked!
3️⃣ Assemble the Stuffed Shells
✔ Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
✔ Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
✔ Fill each pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the beef & ricotta mixture.
✔ Arrange stuffed shells in the baking dish.
✔ Pour remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
✔ Sprinkle with mozzarella & Parmesan cheese.
✅ A cheesy topping makes every bite extra delicious!
4️⃣ Bake to Perfection
✔ Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
✔ Remove foil and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, until bubbly and golden.
✔ Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
✅ For a crispy cheese topping, broil for the last 2 minutes!
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
✔ Serve with garlic bread, salad, or roasted veggies!
✅ Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells – Replace beef with sautéed spinach! 🌿
🔹 Spicy Arrabbiata Version – Use spicy marinara sauce for extra heat! 🌶️
🔹 Three-Cheese Shells – Add fontina or provolone to the mix! 🧀
🔹 Meat Lover’s Twist – Mix in ground sausage or pancetta for a deeper flavor! 🥩
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
✔ Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✔ Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep it fresh.
✔ Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before baking.
✅ Make-ahead friendly—perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights!
🏆 Final Thoughts: The Best Stuffed Shells Ever!
These Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells are cheesy, flavorful, and ultra-comforting—a restaurant-quality dish made right at home! Whether for weeknight dinners, holidays, or meal prep, this dish is a guaranteed family favorite!
