This is absolutely divine! Each bite is sensational!

Low Carb Creamy Ricotta Beef Stuffed Shells Pasta is a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish. By swapping traditional pasta shells for low-carb alternatives, this recipe allows you to enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of stuffed shells without the extra carbs. It's perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, offering a hearty meal that satisfies everyone at the table. This dish combines the creamy goodness of ricotta cheese with savory beef, all nestled in a delicious tomato sauce. It's a wonderful way to bring a taste of Italy to your home, especially if you're watching your carb intake.

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors of the stuffed shells. You might also consider serving it with some roasted vegetables, like asparagus or zucchini, to keep the meal light and balanced. For a special touch, a side of garlic bread made with low-carb bread can be a delightful addition, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Servings: 4

12 low-carb pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the low-carb pasta shells according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.

Add the cooked ground beef to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

Stuff each pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture and place them in the baking dish.

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells.

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving, if desired.

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. If your family enjoys a bit of spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture. For picky eaters, you might want to blend the marinara sauce with some extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to sneak in some added nutrition. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.