Description
A hearty and comforting pasta dish featuring tender shell pasta coated in a rich, creamy tomato beef sauce blended with cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for an easy and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the diced onion until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta shells and mix well to coat in the sauce.
- Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and fully combined.
- Cook for a few more minutes until thick and creamy. Serve warm.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
