Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells
Are you tired of the same old dinner routines? How about injecting some creativity into your meals with a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent? Enter Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells—a creamy delight packed with flavors that even the most discerning eaters will love. Studies show that pasta dishes are a top favorite among families, with 70% of surveyed individuals preferring them for dinner. So, why not try a recipe that is not only delicious but also easy to prepare?
Ingredients List
To create your scrumptious Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Jumbo pasta shells (16 oz): These large shells hold the filling beautifully.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Lean beef is preferable for a healthier option.
- Cream cheese (8 oz): Adds a creamy texture.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): For that irresistible cheesy pull.
- Italian seasoning (1 tbsp): Enhances flavor without extra salt.
- Marinara sauce (2 cups): For a tangy kick; feel free to experiment with homemade or store-bought.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings depth to the flavor profile.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds sweetness and texture.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing flavors.
Substitutions: For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, and use a reduced-fat cream cheese. Vegan options are also possible; swap to plant-based ground meat and vegan cheese.
Timing
Preparing your Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells will take about 60 minutes—that’s 15% quicker than the average pasta bake recipe! Here’s the breakdown:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 60 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt and the jumbo pasta shells. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, simmering until the onion is translucent—around 3-5 minutes. The scent will fill your kitchen!
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook until the beef is browned, approximately 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Step 4: Mix in the Cheese
Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese until it melts and creates a creamy filling. Mix until fully combined, then gently fold in half of the shredded mozzarella.
Step 5: Stuff the Pasta Shells
Using a teaspoon, stuff each jumbo shell with the beef and cheese mixture. Don’t skimp on the filling!
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. Place the stuffed shells on top, then cover with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle the other half of the mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Uncover for the last 10 minutes to melt the cheese beautifully.
Nutritional Information
One serving (2 shells) of Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
This hearty dish not only satisfies hunger but also provides essential nutrients.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to make this dish healthier? Consider these alternatives:
- Substitute zucchini noodles for pasta shells to reduce carbs.
- Use low-fat cheese and cream cheese to cut calories without sacrificing flavor.
- Incorporate spinach or kale into the beef mixture for added vitamins.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells can stand alone, but you might want to elevate your meal by serving:
- A side of crisp garlic bread.
- A fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
- A sprinkle of fresh herbs such as basil or parsley for a pop of color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better to baking.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
- Filling too much or too little: Keep it balanced for the best texture and flavor.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked shells for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
Conclusion
In summary, these Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells are a delightful treat that provides comfort and variety to your dinner table. They’re easy to prepare, customizable, and sure to impress your family or guests. Why not give this recipe a try today? Don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments below!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with a mixture of mushrooms, black beans, or lentils.
What can I use instead of pasta shells?
Manicotti or even lasagna noodles can work effectively with the same filling.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the shells a day before and bake them right before serving for extra convenience.
Now it’s your turn! Dive into this delicious recipe, and bring a cheesy twist to your dinner table tonight.
Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells
Ingredients
For the pasta
- 16 oz Jumbo pasta shells These large shells hold the filling beautifully.
For the filling
- 1 lb Ground beef Lean beef is preferable for a healthier option.
- 8 oz Cream cheese Adds a creamy texture.
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese For that irresistible cheesy pull.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Enhances flavor without extra salt.
- 2 cups Marinara sauce For a tangy kick; feel free to experiment with homemade or store-bought.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Brings depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 medium Onion, diced Adds sweetness and texture.
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add a generous pinch of salt and the jumbo pasta shells. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, simmering until the onion is translucent—around 3-5 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook until the beef is browned, approximately 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese until it melts and creates a creamy filling. Mix until fully combined, then gently fold in half of the shredded mozzarella.
Assembly
- Using a teaspoon, stuff each jumbo shell with the beef and cheese mixture.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. Place the stuffed shells on top, then cover with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle the other half of the mozzarella cheese on top.
Baking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Uncover for the last 10 minutes to melt the cheese beautifully.