Cheesy Beef and Ricotta Stuffed Shells | Easy Dinner
Savory beef and mild turkey Italian sausage blend with ricotta, spinach, and herbs in large pasta shells. Topped with tomato sauce and dairy-free mozzarella, this hearty Italian-American dish is perfect for family meals and leftovers.
Ingredients
- Fresh large pasta shells (6-8 shells)
- 1 pound mild turkey Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1/2 pound ground beef (80-85% lean)
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tablespoon minced garlic (fresh recommended)
- 1 12-ounce package frozen chopped spinach (thawed and drained)
- 1 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups dairy-free mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Cook shells in salted boiling water until al dente, drain, and set aside
- In a skillet, cook turkey sausage and ground beef until browned and drained
- Combine ricotta, panko, eggs, garlic, and half the spinach in a bowl
- Spoon meat mixture into ricotta blend for added seasoning
- Scoop filling into pasta shells, arrange in greased baking dish
- Whisk tomato paste, olive oil, remaining spinach, oregano, salt, and pepper to create sauce
- Pour sauce over stuffed shells, sprinkle with dairy-free mozzarella
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for the first 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake 20-30 more minutes until bubbly and golden
Notes
For gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko
Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) substitute if needed
Ensure spinach is well-drained to prevent soggyness
Top with parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast before baking for extra flavor
Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days
Flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) substitute if needed
Ensure spinach is well-drained to prevent soggyness
Top with parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast before baking for extra flavor
Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days
Nutrition
Serving: 2gCalories: 325kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 28gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 620mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g
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