Baked Shells with Pesto Mozzarella and Meat Sauce
This Baked Shells with Pesto, Mozzarella, and Meat Sauce recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender pasta shells stuffed with aromatic pesto, smothered in a rich, savory meat sauce. Topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s baked to perfection, making every bite a burst of Italian-inspired flavors. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress. The addition of fresh basil adds a vibrant touch, elevating the entire meal. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers warmth and satisfaction.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) pasta shells
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup (120ml) red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup (240ml) pesto
– 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your baked shells are perfectly cooked.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells until they are al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set the shells aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Return the browned beef to the skillet. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and red wine (if using), then season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors blend.
5. Assemble the Dish: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a large baking dish. Fill each pasta shell with a spoonful of pesto, then arrange them in the dish. Once all the shells are filled and placed in the dish, pour the remaining meat sauce evenly over the top.
6. Top with Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the stuffed shells. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning while it bakes.
7. Bake the Shells: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once the baked shells are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 600 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Enjoy these rich, cheesy baked shells packed with flavorful pesto and a hearty meat sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering!
