1. Prepare the pasta shells as directed on the box. Reserve the drained liquid.
2. Melt the olive oil in a big pan over medium heat.
3. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the chopped onion is softened.
4. Cook for a further minute, or until aromatic, then add the minced garlic.
5. Crumble the ground beef with a spoon and add it to the pan. Brown it. Remove any surplus of fat.
6. Add the tomato sauce, chopped tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Simmer for a few minutes.
7. Toss in the cooked pasta shells and give everything a good toss.
8. Finish by topping with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
9. Cook, covered, for about 5 minutes or until cheese melts.
10. Take it hot and savor it!
Changes and Hints
Swapping up the beef with ground chicken or turkey makes it a healthier option. When you’re frying the onions, throw in some finely diced zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers if you want to sneak in some extra veggies. A little red wine may be added to the tomato sauce for more taste. Mood for something fiery? Assemble the garlic with some red pepper flakes. To top it all off, broil the pan for a few minutes until the cheese is brown and bubbling for an extra cheesy finish.
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