Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying meal but short on time? Then look no further! This Hamburger Helper Cheesy Italian Shells recipe is your answer. It's a delightful twist on a classic, bringing together the convenience of Hamburger Helper with the irresistible flavor of cheesy Italian shells. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, providing a delicious and healthy meal the whole family will love. Get ready to enjoy a homemade meal that tastes like restaurant quality, but without the restaurant price tag!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 ounce) jar of your favorite pasta sauce (I prefer a chunky marinara)
- 1 (16 ounce) package of shell pasta
- 1 (8 ounce) package of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce:
Pour in the jar of pasta sauce, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Combine and Bake:
Stir in the cooked pasta into the sauce. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection:
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Italian Shells:
- For extra flavor, use a good quality pasta sauce. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Don't overcook the pasta; al dente is key for the best texture.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of butter along with the cheese.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the sauce.
Variations:
- Meat Lovers Delight: Add cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni along with the ground beef.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or chickpeas.
- Spinach Power-Up: Stir in a cup of fresh or frozen spinach during the last few minutes of simmering the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
This Hamburger Helper Cheesy Italian Shells recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!