Nana’s Classic Beef & Shells is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. This comforting meal combines tender pasta shells with savory ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and a rich, seasoned sauce. It’s simple to whip up and can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients, making it a go-to recipe in any home.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 410
Protein: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 39 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make Nana’s Classic Beef & Shells

Nana’s Classic Beef & Shells is not just a meal; it’s a destination for comfort. Packed with protein from the beef and the deliciousness of pasta, this dish warms both the belly and the heart. With fresh vegetables and vibrant flavors, it’s a healthy option that’s also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it offers a lot of versatility; you can add different vegetables, switch up the meat, or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

How to Make Nana’s Classic Beef & Shells Step by Step
Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) medium pasta shells
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion (150 g), diced
1 green bell pepper (120 g), diced
1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes
1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
1 tsp (2 g) Italian seasoning
1 tsp (5 g) salt
1/2 tsp (2 g) black pepper
1/2 tsp (2 g) garlic powder
1/2 cup (50 g) shredded Parmesan (optional)

Directions

Cook pasta shells according to package directions; drain and set aside. Brown ground beef in a deep skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Add onion and bell pepper; sauté 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a gentle simmer. Cook 8–10 minutes until flavors blend and sauce slightly thickens. Add the cooked shells and toss everything together. Simmer 3 minutes to let pasta absorb the sauce. Sprinkle Parmesan on top if using. Serve hot—simple, rich, and pure comfort just like Nana made!

How to Serve Nana’s Classic Beef & Shells

For a hearty meal, serve Nana’s Classic Beef & Shells alongside a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls make excellent accompaniments to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables for a boost of nutrients.

How to Store Nana’s Classic Beef & Shells

To store leftovers, place Nana’s Classic Beef & Shells in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months.

Expert Tips for Cooking Nana’s Classic Beef & Shells

• For a richer flavor, use ground beef with some fat content instead of lean beef.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Adjust the spices according to your preference; add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
• To make it more savory, consider adding a splash of red wine before simmering.

Delicious Variations of Nana’s Classic Beef & Shells

For a spicy twist, you can stir in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your sauce. If you’re feeling herby, add fresh basil or oregano while simmering for a fragrant flavor. For a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for lentils or a meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Nana’s Classic Beef & Shells is calling your name! This delightful dish brings warmth, flavor, and comfort to your table. Its ease of preparation and adaptability make it a fantastic choice for any weeknight dinner. Give it a try, and savor the delicious memories it will create!