Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner recipe that the whole family will love? Look no further! This Barilla Medium Shells recipe is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals without sacrificing taste. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Barilla medium shells pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Barilla medium shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
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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. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked Barilla medium shells to the sauce, along with a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
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Add Cheese and Serve: Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh basil leaves (optional) and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a great dish. It should be firm to the bite.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is crucial! Taste the sauce throughout the cooking process and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the dish will taste. Fresh herbs make a big difference.
- Add protein: This recipe is easily customizable! Add cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or meatballs for a heartier meal. Chicken or vegetables also make excellent additions.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Omit the meat and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy: Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or heavy cream for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Fat: 10-15g
This easy recipe provides a healthy and delicious meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish – a testament to the magic of homemade cooking! It's a great recipe to add to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Remember to adjust the recipe based on your dietary preferences and enjoy the process of creating this delicious meal.