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–+ servings
Isabella

Spicy Unstuffed Shells with Whipped Ricotta Delight!

A delicious and spicy twist on traditional stuffed shells, featuring whipped ricotta and a savory meat sauce.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups uncooked pasta shells
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey or beef
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground turkey or beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
  5. Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning, mixing well. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  6. While the sauce simmers, prepare the whipped ricotta. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Use a hand mixer or whisk to whip until smooth and creamy.
  7. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  8. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Fill each cooked shell with a spoonful of the whipped ricotta and place them in the dish.
  9. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the shells and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  11. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with lentils or chopped mushrooms.
  • Add sautéed spinach or kale to the meat sauce for extra veggies and nutrition.

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