Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

A hearty, cheesy, and comforting pasta dish with tender pasta shells and savory ground beef in a flavorful tomato sauce.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (225 g) medium or large pasta shells

• 4–5 cups water

• 1 tsp salt

For the Ground Beef Sauce:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (beef, turkey, or chicken)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes

• ½ cup tomato sauce

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)

Garnish (optional):

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water, add 1 tsp salt, and bring to a boil.

2. Add pasta shells and cook until al dente, usually 8–10 minutes (follow package directions).

3. Drain and set aside. Toss lightly with 1 tsp olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef Sauce

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add chopped onions and sauté 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent.

3. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add ground beef and cook 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.

5. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.

2. Add oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the beef sauce.

2. Gently toss or stir to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 5: Add Cheese

1. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly on top.

2. Cover with a lid and cook for 2–3 minutes on low heat, or until the cheese melts.

3. Optionally, sprinkle Parmesan on top before serving.

Step 6: Serve

1. Transfer to serving plates or a large serving bowl.

2. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil.

3. Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh salad.

⭐ Tips & Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for extra nutrition.

• Cheesy Extra: Mix half the mozzarella into the pasta before topping for extra gooeyness.

• Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper to taste.

• Make-Ahead Meal: Assemble in a baking dish, cover, refrigerate, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes when ready.

• Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or shirataki pasta instead of pasta shells.

🍽 Nutrition (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal

• Protein: 25 g

• Carbs: 35 g

• Fat: 18 g