Shells with meatballs

Shells with meatballs: A delicious reinterpretation of pasta

Who doesn't love pasta? Although it's not necessarily my favorite, I enjoy experimenting and creating combinations that blend my favorite flavors. Today, I will present to you a captivating recipe for shells with meatballs, a dish that will bring a touch of originality to your plate. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Let's venture step by step into this wonderful culinary process!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 200 g shell pasta
- 1 chicken breast (about 300 g)
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Chicken spices (or a mix of herbs)
- Pepper to taste
- 1 large carrot
- 100 ml tomato juice
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 100 g cheese (preferably aged)

Preparation

1. Boiling the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and adding a tablespoon of salt. When the water starts to boil, add the shell pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes, until al dente.

2. Cooling the pasta
After the pasta is cooked, remove it from the heat and add a cup of cold water. This step is important to stop the cooking process and prevent the pasta from sticking. Let it sit in cold water for 5-10 minutes, then drain well and rinse under cold running water. Now, the pasta is ready to use!

3. Preparing the meatballs
In a bowl, chop the chicken breast (you can use a food processor for a fine mixture). Add the egg, breadcrumbs, crushed garlic, and finely chopped herbs (dill and parsley). Season with salt and pepper, then mix the composition well. Form small meatballs, about the size of a walnut.

4. Frying the meatballs
In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Fry the meatballs on all sides until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet to fry evenly. Once done, remove them and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

5. Preparing the sauce
In the same skillet, add the sliced carrot and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Then, add the fried meatballs, tomato juice, and sour cream. Let it simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If desired, add a pinch of freshly ground pepper for extra flavor.

6. Mixing the pasta with the sauce
In a large bowl, combine the shell pasta with the meatball sauce. Add the grated cheese and mix well so that each piece of pasta is coated with the delicious sauce.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 °C. Grease a baking dish with a bit of butter and pour in the pasta mixture with sauce. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese melts and becomes slightly browned.

8. Serving
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the dish warm, with a spoonful of sour cream on top if desired. This dish will become a meal favorite!

A brief history of the recipe

This recipe for shells with meatballs combines the tradition of pasta with a unique twist thanks to the chicken meatballs. The origins of meatballs can be found in many cultures, each having its own version. The idea of combining them with pasta brings a fresh breath and makes this dish an excellent choice for those who wish to blend diverse flavors.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and egg content, while the pasta provides essential carbohydrates for energy. Carrots bring a healthy supply of vitamins and fiber, and cheese adds calcium and healthy fats. Additionally, the sour cream contributes to the creaminess of the sauce, making it more enjoyable to taste.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted with pork or turkey, depending on your preferences.

2. What can I do if I don't have shell pasta?
You can use any type of pasta, such as penne or fusilli. Adjust the boiling time according to the type of pasta chosen.

3. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add a few drops of hot sauce or chopped chili peppers to the tomato sauce for an extra kick.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to the sauce, which will add a splash of color and nutrients. Also, replace the cheese with mozzarella for a stretchier texture or feta cheese for a salty flavor.

Serving suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a tomato and cucumber salad, which will add a touch of freshness to your meal. A bottle of dry white wine or lemon juice with sparkling water can perfectly complement this tasty meal.

In conclusion, shells with meatballs are more than just a recipe – they are a story you can share with loved ones, bringing together diverse flavors and textures in an unforgettable dish. Experiment and adapt this recipe to your taste, and every meal will become a special occasion!