When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For me, it’s a steaming plate of pasta shells with tomato sauce, the kind that makes you feel like you’re being wrapped in a cozy blanket straight from Nonna’s kitchen. Picture this: those plump pasta shells cradling rich tomato sauce, bursting with flavor and sprinkled with parmesan. pasta with zucchini and tomatoes The aroma wafts through the air, luring everyone to the table like a siren’s call. Honestly, it may just be the most delicious distraction from whatever chaos life throws your way. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Bangers and Mash recipe.

I vividly remember the first time I attempted to make this dish for my family. It was a rainy afternoon, and I thought I’d impress them with my culinary skills. Spoiler alert: there were tears—mostly from laughter but also some from the explosion of tomato sauce across my kitchen walls. tortellini caprese salad Yet, when I finally served that bubbling pot of pasta shells with tomato sauce, their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. That moment ignited my passion for cooking and transformed our family dinners forever.

My cousin once said she could smell love in the air when I made this dish for a family gathering!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta Shells: Opt for medium-sized pasta shells; they hold sauce beautifully and offer an inviting bite.
• Tomato Sauce: Use high-quality canned tomatoes or homemade sauce for the freshest flavor possible.
• Olive Oil: A good drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil leaves for that aromatic kick; they elevate the dish dramatically.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan on top before serving; trust me, it’s worth the extra effort! butternut squash mac and cheese.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously before tossing in the pasta shells. Cook until al dente as per package instructions.

Create the Sauce: While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil over medium heat in a separate pan. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about a minute should do it—then pour in your favorite tomato sauce. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes recipe.

Add Flavorful Touches: Stir in fresh basil leaves into the sauce as it simmers away; let those beautiful flavors mingle for about 5–7 minutes while keeping an eye out for bubbling goodness.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain your cooked pasta but save a bit of that starchy water—it’s liquid gold! Toss the drained pasta shells into your simmering tomato sauce along with a splash of reserved water to create a silky texture.

Serve Up Deliciousness!: Plate those cheesy pasta shells high and proud; sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately while it’s still warm and inviting!

This recipe of pasta shells with tomato sauce is not just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter—and perhaps a few splatters along the way! Enjoy every comforting bite! ground turkey pasta bake.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling salted water for the pasta, then cook the shells until al dente. Meanwhile, prepare your tomato sauce in a separate pan, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Finally, combine everything for a seamless dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out canned tomatoes for fresh ones or add sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top before baking for that golden crust everyone loves.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover pasta shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

Cooking this dish reminds me of my friend’s surprise birthday party when I made these pasta shells. They were such a hit that guests asked for seconds—and thirds! It was heartwarming to see everyone enjoy my creation.

FAQ

What type of pasta works best?

Use large pasta shells as they hold sauce and fillings beautifully.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and load up on veggies in the sauce.

How do I prevent pasta from sticking together?

Always stir your pasta during cooking to keep it from clumping up.

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Pasta Shells with Tomato Sauce

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• Author: Mery Mack
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Pasta shells with tomato sauce is the ultimate comfort food that wraps you in warmth and flavor. These tender, plump pasta shells are generously filled with a rich, homemade tomato sauce, enhanced by fresh basil and topped with grated Parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, this dish will transport you to an Italian kitchen filled with love and laughter.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups medium pasta shells
• 1 can (15 oz) high-quality crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot, then add pasta shells. Cook until al dente as per package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add crushed tomatoes and stir.
3. Mix in fresh basil leaves and let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes.
4. Drain the cooked pasta, reserving some starchy water. Combine pasta with sauce and a splash of reserved water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 10mg