Pasta Shells with Ground Beef Recipe – Hearty and Flavorful Dish
Preparing an exquisite meal doesn’t always mean hours spent in the kitchen. One such delightful and easy-to-make dish that never fails to impress is the Pasta Shells with Ground Beef. A tantalizing blend of savory ground beef, tender pasta shells, and flavorful seasonings, this dish promises a satisfying feast for any occasion.
Ingredients for Pasta Shells with Ground Beef
Here is a comprehensive list of ingredients you will require:
- Pasta Shells: 1 pound
- Ground Beef: 1 pound
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Garlic Cloves: 2, minced
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 can (28 ounces)
- Tomato Sauce: 1 can (8 ounces)
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
Instructions for Cooking Pasta Shells with Ground Beef
Follow these easy steps to create this delectable dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Shells
- Boil a large pot of water and add a pinch of salt. Cook the pasta shells until they are al dente, following the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent.
- Incorporate ground beef into the skillet and cook until it browns evenly. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Simmer for about 15 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Beef Mixture
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta shells. Top it with half of the beef mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese over the beef mixture. Repeat the layers, ending with a generous topping of Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
- Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Serve the Pasta Shells with Ground Beef while it’s warm, and savor the delicious blend of flavors.
Conclusion
This Pasta Shells with Ground Beef recipe provides a delightful harmony of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a comforting weeknight dinner. The simplicity of its preparation combined with the burst of flavors ensures it as a staple favorite.
Enhance your culinary repertoire with this easy-to-follow recipe and treat yourself to a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.