Here’s a classic, hearty recipe for Pasta Shells with Ground Beef — simple, flavorful, and family-friendly:
Pasta Shells with Ground Beef Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta shells
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz / 680 g) jar marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the 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.
Step 2: Cook the ground beef
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add sauce and seasonings
- Stir in marinara sauce and Italian herbs.
- Simmer for 10 minutes on low heat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine pasta and beef mixture
- Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the beef and sauce.
- Gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
Tips for Best Results
- For extra flavor, sauté the beef with a splash of red wine before adding the sauce.
- You can also stuff large pasta shells with the beef mixture, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes for a baked version.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil added before serving brighten the dish.
If you want, I can also give a baked version with stuffed shells and cheesy topping — it turns this simple dish into a hearty casserole.
