Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese

Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese is a delightful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. This recipe combines hearty ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a rich tomato sauce, topped with gooey cheese for an irresistible meal. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also offers a comforting taste that appeals to all ages. Enjoy this dish on busy nights or whenever you need a satisfying meal that brings everyone together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors that kids and adults alike will enjoy, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a creamy topping that elevates the entire dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in different types of cheese or add vegetables to customize it to your taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: With minimal clean-up required, you’ll have more time to relax after dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools can streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups
• Pasta pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning the beef and combining all ingredients in one place.
• Cooking spoon: Essential for stirring ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
• Measuring cups: Help you accurately measure ingredients like broth and cheese for perfect results.

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Tomato Sauce

• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or tomato sauce)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta and Cheese

• 8 oz large pasta shells
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Cook the pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain them well and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef Mixture

While the pasta cooks:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
3. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Add marinara sauce, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet:
1. Stir everything together to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Let it cook for about 5-10 minutes so that flavors meld together nicely.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce has slightly thickened:
1. Add cooked pasta shells into the skillet.
2. Stir gently to ensure all shells are well coated with sauce.

Step 5: Add Cheese Toppings

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top:
1. Cover the skillet with a lid.
2. Allow it to sit for about 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat:
1. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy your Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese!

How to Serve Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese

Serving Beef and Shells with Tomato Sauce and Cheese is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple suggestions. This dish is hearty and satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving ideas to elevate your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Toasted garlic bread complements the flavors of the beef and sauce while adding a crunchy texture.

Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.

Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, add color and nutrition to your plate.

Grated Cheese Topping

• Offer extra grated Parmesan or mozzarella on the side for guests who love extra cheesy goodness.

Wine Pairing (Non-Alcoholic)

• Serve a sparkling grape juice or non-alcoholic wine for a festive touch without alcohol.

Fresh Herb Garnish

• Top each serving with fresh basil or parsley to enhance both the flavor and presentation of the dish.

How to Perfect Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese

To ensure your Beef and Shells with Tomato Sauce and Cheese turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh ground beef and good-quality marinara sauce for better flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the shells al dente; they’ll absorb some sauce as they rest.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving; adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed for optimal flavor.
• Layer the cheese: For an extra cheesy dish, mix half of the cheese into the pasta and sprinkle the rest on top.
• Let it sit before serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes will help meld flavors together.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for an additional flavor boost.

Best Side Dishes for Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese

Enhancing your meal with thoughtful side dishes can make a complete dining experience. Here are some excellent sides that pair well with Beef and Shells with Tomato Sauce and Cheese.

1. Caesar Salad

2. A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing adds freshness to your meal.

3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

4. Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and blend beautifully with the richness of the pasta.

5. Steamed Broccoli

6. Lightly steamed broccoli offers a burst of color and nutrients while balancing out the hearty flavors of the main dish.

7. Caprese Salad

8. Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic drizzle create a vibrant side that enhances your dining experience.

9. Stuffed Bell Peppers

10. Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or quinoa make for an appealing and nutritious accompaniment.

11. Bruschetta

12. Crispy bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes and basil is a flavorful starter that whets the appetite before your main course.

13. Corn on the Cob

14. Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is sweet and satisfying, adding a fun element to your meal presentation.

15. Zucchini Fritters

16. Crispy zucchini fritters are not only delicious but also provide a great way to sneak in more veggies!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Beef and Shells with Tomato Sauce and Cheese perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes.

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta shells too long can lead to mushy results. Follow the package instructions for al dente texture.
• Using Low-Quality Sauce: A poor-quality marinara can alter the dish’s flavor. Opt for a high-quality jar or homemade sauce for better taste.
• Not Browning the Meat Properly: Failing to brown the beef well can result in a bland dish. Make sure to cook it until it’s nicely browned for deeper flavor.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season with salt and pepper can leave your dish flat. Don’t forget to season at every step for maximum flavor.
• Adding Cheese Too Early: If you add cheese too soon, it may not melt properly. Wait until the end to sprinkle cheese on top for that perfect gooeyness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Beef and Shells with Tomato Sauce and Cheese.

How can I customize Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Also, try different cheeses or spices based on your preference!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this dish without compromising flavor.

What type of pasta works best?

While large shells are traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni, for similar results.

How long does it take to prepare Beef And Shells With Tomato Sauce And Cheese?

The total time is around 25 minutes—10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes of cooking time.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready.

Final Thoughts

Beef and Shells with Tomato Sauce and Cheese is a comforting and satisfying meal that appeals to all ages. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients easily while maintaining rich flavors. Try this delicious recipe today!