Pasta shells with ground beef

Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

Pasta shells with ground beef is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s the kind of meal that works for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual gatherings, offering comfort and satisfaction without requiring complicated techniques or expensive ingredients. With simple pantry staples and straightforward steps, this recipe delivers big flavor in every bite.

The shape of pasta shells makes them especially perfect for this dish. Their curved form catches and holds the sauce, ensuring each forkful is coated with beefy, tomato-rich goodness. Whether you’re cooking for kids, adults, or picky eaters, this pasta shells recipe is a reliable favorite that never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta shells with ground beef recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty and comforting. Ground beef adds richness and protein, while the tomato-based sauce keeps the dish from feeling too heavy. It’s also incredibly adaptable—you can add vegetables, adjust seasonings, or make it creamy depending on your preferences.

Another reason this recipe stands out is how quickly it comes together. In under an hour, you can have a complete, filling meal on the table, making it ideal for weeknights when time is limited but you still want something homemade.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 ounces (340 g) medium pasta shells
Water, for boiling
1 tablespoon salt

For the Ground Beef Sauce

1 pound (450 g) ground beef
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 can (24 ounces) crushed tomatoes
½ cup beef broth or water
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Add-Ins and Garnish

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
½ cup mozzarella cheese (for a creamy finish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add salt generously, then add the pasta shells. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually 9–11 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink.

If there is excess grease, carefully drain it off, leaving just enough to keep the beef moist and flavorful.

3. Build the Flavor Base

Add the chopped onion to the browned beef and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, paprika, and dried oregano. Stir well to evenly coat the beef and onions with the spices.

4. Make the Sauce

Add the tomato paste to the pan and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step helps deepen the tomato flavor and adds richness to the sauce.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine, then add red pepper flakes if using. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta shells directly to the sauce. Gently stir until the shells are evenly coated and filled with sauce. Let everything cook together for 2–3 minutes so the pasta absorbs some of the flavor.

If you want a creamier version, stir in mozzarella or a small splash of cream at this stage.

Serving Suggestions

Serve pasta shells with ground beef hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs like basil or parsley. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

For a baked version, transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Final Thoughts

Pasta shells with ground beef is a dependable, satisfying recipe that belongs in every home cook’s rotation. With tender pasta, savory beef, and a well-seasoned tomato sauce, it delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, this dish is perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed family meals.