Delicious Pasta Shells with Ground Beef Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this Pasta Shells with Ground Beef recipe is perfect for you. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and ideal for both family dinners and meal prepping. This recipe combines hearty ground beef with pasta shells in a rich tomato sauce, creating a dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe and discover how you can make it at home in just under 30 minutes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Pasta Shells with Ground Beef, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of pasta shells: Medium-sized pasta shells work best for this recipe as they capture the savory sauce and meat perfectly.
• 1 pound of ground beef: Choose lean ground beef to reduce the fat content and keep the dish healthier.
• 1 medium onion: Finely chopped for added flavor.
• 2 cloves of garlic: Minced to enhance the taste.
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces): Adds a fresh, tangy flavor to the sauce.
• 1 can of tomato sauce (15 ounces): The base of our rich and savory sauce.
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano: A classic herb for Italian-inspired dishes.
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil: Provides a sweet and slightly peppery flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, for a hint of heat.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Season according to your preference.
• 1/4 cup of chopped parsley: For garnish and added freshness.
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: Optional, but highly recommended for serving.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

1. Boil the pasta shells: Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
2. Drain and set aside: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. Be sure to reserve a cup of pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain the excess fat: If there is excess fat in the skillet, carefully drain it to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
3. Add onions and garlic: To the browned beef, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Add tomatoes and seasonings: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Simmer the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix in the pasta shells: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the tomato and beef sauce. Gently toss to coat the pasta with the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up the flavors of the sauce.
2. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley. For extra richness, you can also top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

• Choose quality ingredients: Using fresh garlic, onions, and high-quality tomatoes will enhance the flavor of your sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking the pasta al dente (firm to the bite) is essential to maintain the right texture when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more or less seasoning depending on your personal preference. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
• Make it ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pasta Shells with Ground Beef recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It’s a one-pan dish that requires minimal prep work and cooks quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and rich tomato sauce is a classic that never goes out of style. Plus, it’s versatile – feel free to add your favorite vegetables or even substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Nutritional Information

This recipe serves 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes. Each serving provides approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 28 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40 grams
• Fat: 15 grams

Pairing Suggestions

To complete your meal, serve this Pasta Shells with Ground Beef with a simple side salad, a slice of garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs wonderfully with the robust flavors of the tomato sauce and beef.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – a hearty and satisfying Pasta Shells with Ground Beef recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a casual get-together with friends. Try this recipe today and experience the comforting flavors of this Italian-inspired dish. Enjoy!