Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Cheese:

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
• Drain the shells and set aside, arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Beef Filling:

• In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Drain any excess fat.
• Remove from heat and stir in the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg. Mix until well combined. The filling should be thick and cheesy.

3. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
• Slowly whisk in the milk and bring it to a simmer. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
• Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Dish:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread a thin layer of the creamy cheese sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese filling, then arrange them in the baking dish.
• Pour the remaining creamy cheese sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they’re well covered.
• Sprinkle the tops with extra shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a golden, cheesy crust.

5. Bake the Stuffed Shells:

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the shells are heated through.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese on top is golden and slightly crispy.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of color and flavor.

Optional Variations:

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add spinach or zucchini to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef filling for a spicier version.
• Sauce Variation: For a different twist, you can substitute part of the creamy sauce with marinara sauce for a more traditional stuffed shells flavor.

These Beef-Stuffed Shells with Creamy Cheese are rich, cheesy, and packed with savory beef flavor—perfect for an indulgent meal! Would you like to make any modifications to the filling or sauce?