Here’s a classic and comforting recipe for Pasta Shells with Ground Beef — simple, hearty, and family-friendly.
🍝 Ingredients (serves 4–6)
- 1 lb (≈ 450 g) pasta shells (medium or large)
- 1 lb (≈ 450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (≈ 400 g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richer flavor)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or more for topping)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the ground beef
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (3–4 minutes).
- Add garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Make the sauce
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to combine.
- Combine pasta and sauce
- Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and gently toss to coat with the sauce.
- Sprinkle in the mozzarella cheese and stir gently until melted and evenly distributed.
- Serve
- Plate the pasta shells with ground beef and sauce.
- Garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil if desired.
🍽 Tips & Variations
- For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake at 180 °C (350 °F) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- For a creamy twist, stir in ¼ cup cream or cream cheese when mixing the pasta with sauce.
If you want, I can also give a version using Pakistani ingredients and spices — like substituting local beef, adding chili powder, or using local cheese — so it’s perfectly adapted for home cooking.
Do you want me to do that?
