Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

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Description:
Pasta Shells with Ground Beef is a comforting and hearty dish that features large pasta shells stuffed with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheese. This delicious meal is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, combining the delightful flavors of Italian cuisine with a satisfying texture. Topped with melted cheese and baked until bubbly, it’s a dish everyone will love!

Ingredients:

For the Pasta and Filling:

  • Large pasta shells: 12 oz (340 g)
  • Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g)
  • Onion (chopped): 1 small
  • Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
  • Italian seasoning: 1 tsp
  • Salt: ½ tsp
  • Black pepper: ½ tsp
  • Ricotta cheese: 1 cup (240 g)
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (100 g)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (50 g)

For the Sauce:

  • Marinara sauce: 2 cups (480 ml)
  • Olive oil: 1 tbsp (for cooking)
  • Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)

Optional Ingredients (for extra flavor):

  • Red pepper flakes: ¼ tsp (for a bit of heat)
  • Spinach or kale: 1 cup (for added nutrition)
  • Diced bell peppers: ½ cup (for extra veggies)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare the beef filling:
    In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  4. Mix the filling:
    Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and ricotta cheese. If using spinach or other veggies, stir them in as well.
  5. Stuff the pasta shells:
    Using a spoon, fill each cooked pasta shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish.
  6. Add the sauce:
    Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
  7. Bake the dish:
    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Serve:
    Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Enjoy!

Tips for Success:

  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the shells just until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
  • Customize your filling: Feel free to add other ingredients like diced vegetables or different cheeses for added flavor.
  • Make ahead: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Recommendations:

  • Serve with sides: Pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • Experiment with sauces: Try using different sauces, like Alfredo or pesto, for a unique twist on the dish.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 400
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg

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