Irresistible Pasta Shells with Tomato Sauce Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of pasta shells simmering in a rich tomato sauce that wafts through your kitchen, making your taste buds dance with anticipation. The vibrant red of the sauce glistens, promising a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and delightful. pasta with zucchini and tomatoes Imagine the first bite: the tender shells cradling a luscious filling, enveloped in a savory embrace of tomatoes and spices, each mouthful bursting with deliciousness.

Pasta shells with tomato sauce is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and nostalgia. Picture family gatherings where laughter flows as freely as the wine, or cozy nights curled up on the couch watching your favorite movie. ground turkey pasta bake This dish has been a staple in my home for years, bringing people together and sparking joy. Trust me when I say that after one taste, you’ll be hooked!

I remember the look on my friend’s face when I served this dish at a potluck; it was pure bliss and seconds were demanded!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious garlic butter green beans recipe.

• Pasta Shells: Opt for medium-sized shells to hold the sauce perfectly without losing their shape during cooking.
• Canned Tomatoes: Use whole peeled tomatoes for a fresher taste; crush them by hand for texture.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds depth and richness to your sauce. tortellini caprese salad.
• Onion: Finely chop a medium onion; it provides sweetness when sautéed that balances the acidity of tomatoes.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic intensity; feel free to add more if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Italian Herbs: A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme works wonders in creating depth in flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors—don’t forget to season generously!
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for topping; it adds a nutty flavor that’s simply irresistible. butternut squash mac and cheese.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this classic strawberry shortcake recipe recipe.

Let’s Make it together

Cook Your Pasta Shells: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot over high heat. Once boiling, add the pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while preparing the sauce.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Toss in minced garlic, cooking for another minute until aromatic.

Add Tomatoes & Seasonings: Pour in crushed canned tomatoes along with their juices. Stir in Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 15 minutes to develop all those fantastic flavors.

Combine Pasta & Sauce: Once the sauce has thickened slightly, toss cooked pasta shells directly into the skillet. Gently fold them into the sauce until well-coated—be careful not to break them!

Serve & Garnish!: Transfer your beautifully saucy pasta shells to serving plates or bowls. Generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving hot—this adds delightful creaminess!

Enjoy Your Creation!: Sit back and relish each bite as you savor this comforting homemade dish that brings smiles all around.

With these steps completed, you’ll have an incredible plate of pasta shells with tomato sauce ready to impress anyone who dares take a bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta shells until al dente. While they cook, sauté garlic in olive oil and add crushed tomatoes to create a rich sauce. Combine them once the shells are ready for a seamless dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition. A sprinkle of cheese like mozzarella or Parmesan on top can also elevate the flavor profile. Experiment with herbs like basil for extra freshness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of water to revive that saucy goodness without drying out.

Making this dish always reminds me of my cousin’s dinner parties where we’d laugh over too much garlic and messy plates, but nobody cared because it was just that good!

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, any pasta works well, but shells hold sauce best.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Use plant-based cheese and skip any meat products in the sauce.

What’s the best way to enhance flavor?

Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano while cooking for a burst of flavor.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Pasta Shells with Tomato Sauce

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Pasta shells simmered in a rich tomato sauce evoke memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. This comforting dish features tender shells filled with savory goodness, enveloped in a vibrant tomato sauce, creating a flavor experience that is both nostalgic and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to impress.

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Ingredients

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• 12 oz medium pasta shells
• 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in crushed canned tomatoes along with their juices, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet, gently folding them into the sauce until well-coated.
5. Serve hot with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 15mg