Amazing Creamy Beef Stuffed Shells 20

Name: Amazing Creamy Beef Stuffed Shells 20
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-488867H17M7S
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 20 large pasta shells; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

by Fenna Saul

September 8, 2025

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Beef Stuffed Shells Creamy has always been my go-to comfort food, especially when I need a meal that feels both special and incredibly satisfying. I remember the first time I tried making these myself, aiming for those perfectly cradled pasta shells filled with a rich, savory beef and creamy ricotta mixture. The aroma that filled my kitchen – that blend of garlic, herbs, and simmering marinara – was pure magic! It’s a dish that brings people together, and learning how to make creamy beef stuffed shells that are both delicious and easy to prepare was a game-changer for my weeknight dinners. If you’re looking for an easy creamy beef stuffed shells recipe that will impress, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef Stuffed Shells

This recipe for creamy beef stuffed shells is a surefire winner for so many reasons:

The taste is absolutely divine – tender pasta shells loaded with a savory, cheesy, and creamy beef filling.
It’s surprisingly quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Packed with protein from the ground beef and ricotta, these creamy beef pasta shells offer a satisfying and hearty experience.
It’s incredibly budget-friendly, using common ingredients that don’t break the bank.
The whole family will adore this comforting dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser for sure!
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy classic pasta flavors with a delightful creamy twist.
These creamy beef pasta shells are a fantastic example of delicious comfort food.
You’ll love how easily this recipe comes together, offering a fuss-free yet impressive dinner.

Ingredients for Creamy Beef Stuffed Shells

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating a truly memorable dish. Here’s what you’ll need for our creamy beef shells with ricotta filling:

20 large pasta shells – cook these until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes
1 pound ground beef – 80/20 is great for flavor, but feel free to use leaner if you prefer
1 cup ricotta cheese – this is key for that wonderfully creamy texture we’re aiming for
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – divided, for the filling and that glorious cheesy topping
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty depth to the filling
1 cup marinara sauce – use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade for extra flavor
1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the garlic and beef
1 large egg – helps bind the filling ingredients together
2 cloves garlic, minced – the aromatic base of our savory filling
1 teaspoon dried oregano – classic Italian herb that complements beef perfectly
1 teaspoon dried basil – another essential herb for that authentic flavor
Salt and pepper, to taste – season generously for the best taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional) – adds a pop of color and freshness at the end

How to Make Creamy Beef Stuffed Shells

Get ready to create a truly comforting meal! This recipe for creamy beef stuffed shells is straightforward and so rewarding. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, cook your pasta shells according to the package directions until they are perfectly al dente. I like to cook them a minute less than the package says so they hold up better when filling. Drain them and set them aside so they don’t stick together.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced 2 cloves garlic and sauté until you can really smell that wonderful aroma, about 30 seconds. Then, add the 1 pound ground beef. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned. Drain off any excess fat – this is important for the texture of your ground beef stuffed shells creamy filling.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the browned beef with 1 cup ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1/2 cup), the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This mixture is the heart of your ground beef stuffed shells creamy delight.
Step 4: Carefully spoon the beef and ricotta mixture into each cooked pasta shell. Don’t overstuff them, or the filling might spill out during baking. Arrange the filled shells in a single layer in your baking dish.
Step 5: Pour the 1 cup marinara sauce evenly over the filled shells. Make sure to cover all the shells. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. This cheesy layer will get wonderfully golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Then, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and nicely browned. The aroma as it bakes is incredible!
Step 7: Once out of the oven, let your ground beef stuffed shells creamy creation rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like for a touch of brightness.

Creamy beef and ricotta filling for stuffed shells

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Beef Stuffed Shells

Want to elevate your creamy beef stuffed shells game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a big difference in achieving that perfect texture and flavor.

Don’t overcook the pasta shells initially; they should be al dente as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
Ensure your ricotta cheese is well-drained if it seems particularly wet. This helps prevent a watery filling, keeping your creamy beef shells perfectly cohesive.
When mixing the filling, use your hands! It’s the best way to ensure everything is evenly combined without overworking the mixture, which can make the beef tough.
A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes in the filling can add an extra layer of flavor to your creamy beef shells dinner recipe.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy beef stuffed shells?

The secret to achieving the best creamy beef shells lies in the balance of ingredients. Using a good quality ricotta and not overcooking the pasta are crucial. I also find that letting the filling rest for a few minutes before stuffing helps it meld together. For more delicious pasta ideas, check out our recipes section.

Can I make creamy beef stuffed shells ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time since it will be chilled. This is a great way to prep for busy nights, similar to how you might prepare turkey meatloaf in advance.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy beef stuffed shells?

The most common pitfalls are overcooking the shells and overfilling them. If the shells are too soft, they can break when you stuff them. Overfilling means the delicious beef mixture will ooze out during baking. Be gentle! For more tips on cooking pasta, you can refer to Allrecipes’ guide.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Beef Stuffed Shells

Serving up these delightful creamy beef stuffed shells is an event in itself! They are hearty enough to be the star of the show, but pairing them with a fresh side can really complete the meal. For a classic Italian-American experience, I love serving them alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. This cuts through the richness beautifully. Another fantastic option for a complete creamy beef shells dinner recipe is some crusty garlic bread – perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. You could also add a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a touch of color and freshness. If you’re looking for more side dish inspiration, consider our crispy roasted cauliflower.

Baked creamy beef stuffed shells with melted cheese

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Beef Stuffed Shells

This recipe for creamy beef stuffed shells is as satisfying as it is delicious. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving, which typically includes about three stuffed shells. Remember, these are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use.

Calories: 550 kcal
Fat: 25g
Protein: 30g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on healthy eating, consult resources like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Beef Stuffed Shells

Leftovers of this amazing creamy baked beef shells dish are a gift that keeps on giving! Once your delicious creamy beef stuffed shells have cooled down completely – and I mean truly cool, about 1-2 hours after baking – you’ll want to store them properly. For refrigeration, place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fantastic in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them even longer, freezing is your best bet. Wrap individual portions or the whole dish securely in plastic wrap, then in foil, and they can happily live in your freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat is in a moderate oven. If reheating from the fridge, cover them and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Beef Stuffed Shells

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of shells?

While shells are traditional for this dish, you could try jumbo rigatoni or large manicotti tubes. Just ensure they are large enough to hold the filling. The texture might change slightly, but you’ll still get delicious savory creamy beef stuffed shells.

What can I serve with creamy beef stuffed shells?

These are wonderfully rich, so a fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect complement. Garlic bread is also a classic pairing, great for soaking up any extra sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus add a nice touch of green and balance the meal. For a different flavor profile, you might enjoy our korean bbq meatballs.

Can I make the beef filling for creamy beef stuffed shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef and ricotta filling mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble, simply stuff the shells and proceed with the recipe. This makes putting together your savory creamy beef stuffed shells even quicker!

How do I make creamy beef stuffed shells vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef. You can replace it with sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped zucchini, or even lentils for a hearty texture. Ensure you season the vegetable mixture well to get that delicious flavor in your savory creamy beef stuffed shells.

Variations of Creamy Beef Stuffed Shells You Can Try

While this creamy beef stuffed shells recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with it! If you’re looking for ways to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs, here are a few ideas. For a truly simple creamy beef stuffed shells option, consider swapping the ground beef for Italian sausage – it adds an extra layer of savory spice that’s absolutely delicious. If you want to make it vegetarian, finely chopped mushrooms and zucchini sautéed with the same herbs work wonderfully as a hearty substitute. Another fun variation is to add a bit of pesto to the ricotta filling for a fresh, herby twist. You could even try a lighter version by using whole wheat pasta shells and a lower-fat ricotta for a healthier take on this classic comfort food. For other hearty meals, explore our beef and bowtie pasta.