Beef and Shells Pasta Bake with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe

Introduction

This Beef and Shells recipe combines tender pasta shells with a rich, creamy beef and tomato sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta shells
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (lean)
• ¾ cup sweet onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1½ cups marinara sauce
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink, and the onion is soft.
3. Step 3: Drain excess fat if desired, then set the beef mixture aside.
4. Step 4: Return the skillet to the heat. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Step 5: Whisk in the flour to coat the ingredients and cook out the raw flour taste, stirring continuously.
6. Step 6: Gradually whisk in beef broth until the mixture is smooth and combined.
7. Step 7: Stir in the marinara sauce.
8. Step 8: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. Step 9: Add the cooked pasta and the beef and onion mixture back into the pan, stirring to combine.
10. Step 10: Stir in sour cream until the sauce is creamy and well blended.
11. Step 11: Fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until melted.
12. Step 12: Remove from heat and serve warm.
13. Step 13: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine when cooking the garlic and seasonings.
• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
• Try adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, any small pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni works well with this sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the dish up to the point before adding cheese, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently and stir in the cheese until melted.

Beef and Shells Pasta Bake with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 84 reviews

A hearty and creamy beef and pasta shells dish featuring a savory blend of ground beef, marinara sauce, and a creamy sour cream cheese sauce, perfect for a comforting family meal in just 30 minutes.

• Author: luca
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 ounces pasta shells

Beef Mixture

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (lean)
• ¾ cup sweet onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Sauce

• 3 tablespoons all purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish

• Parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook pasta: Cook pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water following package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Brown beef and onions: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned with no pink remaining and the onion is softened.
3. Drain fat: Drain excess fat from the beef mixture if desired. Set the beef mixture aside.
4. Sauté garlic and seasonings: Return the skillet to the heat and add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add flour: Whisk in the flour to the pan, stirring to cook out any raw flour taste.
6. Add broth: Slowly whisk in beef broth and stir well to combine.
7. Incorporate marinara: Pour in the marinara sauce and stir.
8. Simmer sauce: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Stir occasionally for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. Combine pasta and beef: Stir the cooked pasta and beef/onion mixture into the sauce until evenly combined.
10. Add sour cream: Stir in sour cream to create a creamy sauce consistency.
11. Fold in cheese: Add shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until melted throughout the mixture.
12. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the warm beef and shells mixture.
13. Garnish: Top with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

• For leaner meat, use extra-lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
• Drain excess fat to reduce calories and grease in the dish.
• Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with sauce.
• Stir sauce constantly while simmering to avoid burning or sticking to the pan.
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor instead of pre-minced varieties.
• Optional: sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top before serving for extra cheesiness.

Keywords: beef shells, creamy pasta, ground beef recipe, easy dinner, Italian seasoning, comfort food