PASTA SHELLS WITH GROUND BEEF

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: 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.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, along with the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine the Pasta and Beef: Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss until the pasta is well coated with the beef and sauce mixture. If you’re adding cheese, stir it in at this point, allowing it to melt into the pasta.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley for a bit of color and brightness, and serve the pasta hot. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top for an even richer finish.

Why You’ll Love Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

• Easy to Make: This dish is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for those busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast.
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of pasta, beef, and a rich sauce ensures this meal is satisfying and will keep you full.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the familiar flavors of this dish, and it’s easily customizable to suit different preferences.
• One-Pot Option: With the pasta cooked separately, everything else can be done in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Perfect Pairings

Pair your Pasta Shells with Ground Beef with:

• Garlic Bread: A side of warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect complement to this pasta dish.
• Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

Tips for Success

• Use Quality Tomatoes: The flavor of your sauce largely depends on the quality of the tomatoes you use, so go for good-quality canned tomatoes for the best results.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To avoid mushy pasta, be sure to cook the shells until they are just al dente. The pasta will continue to absorb some of the sauce once mixed in.
• Customize the Cheese: You can use any cheese you prefer—mozzarella, cheddar, or even Parmesan all work well with this recipe.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed.

Conclusion

Pasta Shells with Ground Beef is a classic comfort food that delivers on both flavor and convenience. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something quick, hearty, and delicious. The tender pasta shells are perfect for soaking up the rich, beefy tomato sauce, and with the option to add cheese, you can make it even more indulgent. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals ahead of time, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

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