Here’s a simple and delicious Pasta Shells with Ground Beef recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for a quick meal!
Ingredients
• 12 oz medium pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup beef broth or water
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Add aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Add sauce ingredients: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and beef broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
5. Combine pasta: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and mix well. Let everything simmer for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
6. Add cheese & cream: Stir in shredded cheese and heavy cream (or sour cream) until melted and creamy.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot!
Tips & Variations
• Use ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor.
• Add bell peppers or spinach for extra veggies.
• Swap mozzarella for Parmesan for a sharper taste.
Let me know if you’d like any adjustments!