Pasta Shells Recipe: A Delicious and Versatile Dish
Pasta shells are a delightful and versatile pasta shape, perfect for a variety of dishes. Their unique shape makes them ideal for stuffing with delicious fillings, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. This blog post will guide you through a simple yet flavorful pasta shells recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to cooking tips, ensuring a perfect dish every time.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 pound pasta shells: Make sure to choose a high-quality pasta for the best taste and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A good quality olive oil will enhance the flavor of your dish.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works well.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a vibrant flavor.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Choose your favorite brand – San Marzano tomatoes are a classic choice.
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: This adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that complements the tomatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Another essential Italian herb for a truly authentic taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously throughout the cooking process.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: A classic cheese for pasta bakes.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, sharp flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
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Combine and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta shells and the tomato sauce. Stir gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
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Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the pasta.
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Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
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Serve and Enjoy: Let the pasta cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the dish to firm up.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Shells:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the oven.
- Use fresh herbs if possible: Fresh herbs offer a superior flavor compared to dried ones.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce.
- Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like ricotta, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses.
- Make it ahead: The pasta shells can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.
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This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal while also incorporating crucial SEO elements for improved search engine visibility. The use of relevant keywords, clear headings, and a step-by-step guide ensures a user-friendly and search-engine-optimized blog post. Remember to share this delicious recipe with your friends and family!
