Pasta shells with ground beef

Ah, pasta shells with ground beef — a classic comfort food! Here’s a simple way to make it, plus a slightly more “loaded” version if you like.

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Ingredients (for 4 servings)

• 1 lb (450 g) pasta shells

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)

• Olive oil for cooking

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta:

   • Boil pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the beef:

   • In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat.

   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft.

   • Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.

   • Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.

3. Make the sauce:

   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning.

   • Simmer for 10–15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Combine pasta and beef sauce:

   • Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the beef sauce and mix gently.

   • If you like, top with mozzarella and Parmesan, cover, and let it melt for a few minutes.

5. Serve hot:

   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

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Tips / Variations:

• For a cheesy stuffed version, you can stuff large pasta shells with a mixture of cooked beef, ricotta, and spinach, then bake with tomato sauce on top.

• Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

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If you want, I can also give a quick one-pan version that cooks the pasta directly in the sauce with the beef — saves time and dishes! Do you want me to show that?