Pasta shells stuffed with meat and tomato sauce

Stuffed shell pasta with meat and tomato sauce

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Dear cooking enthusiast, today I invite you to discover a delicious and comforting recipe for stuffed shell pasta with meat and tomato sauce. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a nostalgic touch to every bite. The origins of these stuffed dishes are deeply rooted in the culinary culture of many communities, where cooking has always been an art form and a way to express love for loved ones.

Ingredients:

- 250 g colored shell pasta
- 250 g pork
- 150 g beef
- 1 large onion
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 egg
- 3-4 tablespoons tomato paste
- Oil (olive or sunflower)
- Fresh parsley
- Dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient details:

- Shell pasta: These are not only attractive due to their shape but also because they hold sauces well, making them ideal for stuffing.
- Pork and beef: The combination of these two types of meat provides a rich and juicy flavor. You can experiment with other types of meat, such as chicken or turkey, depending on your preferences.
- Onion: This adds sweetness and flavor to your dish.
- Tomatoes: Use well-ripened tomatoes to achieve a sweeter and more aromatic sauce.
- Parsley and rosemary: These herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add a touch of freshness to the dish.

Step by step: Preparing the stuffed shell pasta

1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, add salted water and bring to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, they boil for about 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta. Once cooked, drain and let them cool slightly.

2. Prepare the filling: While the pasta cools, finely chop the pork and beef or use a food processor for a finer texture. In a large skillet, add oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until golden. This step is essential to extract the flavors from the onion.

3. Add the meat: Place the chopped meat in the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and let it cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the water released by the meat has completely evaporated. This will ensure a more concentrated and flavorful filling.

4. Incorporate the tomato sauce: Add the tomato paste to the skillet, mix well, and let it simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes. This sauce will add extra flavor to the filling. If you want a thinner sauce, you can add a little water.

5. Finalize the filling: Once the meat and sauce mixture is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. After it has cooled, add the beaten egg and season with rosemary. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous filling.

6. Fill the pasta: Using a spoon, fill each shell with the meat mixture. Be generous, but make sure not to overfill, so they don't burst during baking. Arrange the stuffed shells in a greased baking dish.

7. Prepare for the oven: Add a cup of water to the dish, ensuring it does not exceed the level of the shells. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking and prevent drying out.

8. Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 20 minutes. This time is sufficient for the filling to heat up and the flavors to combine.

9. Add the tomatoes: After 20 minutes, remove the foil and add the peeled and diced tomatoes on top of the shells. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and release their juice.

10. Serving: Remove the pasta from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor. Serve hot, alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.

Practical tips:

- If you want to save time, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Then, when you're ready to cook, all you need to do is fill the pasta and bake them.
- Instead of pork and beef, you can use chicken or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Add spices like oregano or basil to the filling for a Mediterranean flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use gluten-free pasta? Yes, you can replace the shell pasta with gluten-free options available in stores.
- How can I store leftovers? You can keep the stuffed pasta in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- What drinks go well with this dish? Offer a glass of white or red wine, depending on your preferences, or a fresh lemonade for a non-alcoholic option.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe for stuffed shell pasta with meat is an excellent source of protein due to the meat and egg. Tomatoes provide antioxidants and vitamins, while the pasta supplies complex carbohydrates essential for energy. Adding fresh herbs not only enhances the flavor but also offers health benefits.

In conclusion, these stuffed shell pasta with meat and tomato sauce are more than just a simple dish; they are a culinary experience that brings together flavors, tradition, and creativity. It is a perfect meal for a family dinner or to impress guests. So, gather your ingredients and let's cook together! Enjoy your meal!