Introduction:
Pasta Shells with Ground Beef is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta shells with flavorful ground beef in a rich, savory sauce. This comforting meal is easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a family favorite that can be customized with different cheeses and herbs to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound medium pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta Shells:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Onions and Garlic:
- Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce:
- Pour in the marinara sauce and 1/2 cup of water or beef broth, stirring to combine. Add the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Stir the cooked pasta shells into the sauce, ensuring the shells are well-coated. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a little more water or broth.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and beef mixture. Stir to combine and let the cheese melt into the sauce.
- Serve:
- Once the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve hot, and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- To enhance the flavor, you can sauté the onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding the ground beef.
- For a creamier dish, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or ricotta cheese before serving.
- If you like a bit of crunch, top the dish with breadcrumbs and bake for 10 minutes before serving.
Recommendation:
This dish pairs well with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It also reheats well, making it an excellent option for leftovers or meal prep. For a variation, try using ground turkey or sausage in place of ground beef, or mix in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients.
Savor the comforting flavors of this Pasta Shells with Ground Beef, a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion!