The aroma of sizzling ground beef fills the air, mingling with the delightful scent of melting cheese and spices. With each bite of this Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet, you’ll experience a burst of flavors that dance on your palate, making it hard to resist reaching for a second helping. honey glazed salmon This dish is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug that wraps you in warmth and comfort, perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.
Remember those evenings when your family would gather around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter? This hearty skillet meal brings back those memories with its easy preparation and mouthwatering taste. Whether you’re celebrating Taco Tuesday or just craving something delicious any day of the week, this recipe promises to deliver joy and satisfaction with every forkful.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet is incredibly easy to whip up on a busy weeknight while still being loaded with flavor.
- The blend of spices makes each bite exciting, ensuring no two bites are ever dull.
- Visually, the dish is stunning with its vibrant colors from fresh veggies and melted cheese.
- It’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have at home—perfect for using up leftovers!
Ingredients for Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet
For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Aim for about 1 pound for a hearty meal.
- Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought or homemade seasoning; both add that essential zesty kick to the beef.
- Shell Pasta: Use medium shell pasta as it holds onto sauces beautifully and adds delightful texture.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes bring juiciness and acidity; opt for those with added herbs for extra flavor.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully over the dish, enhancing both taste and visual appeal.
For the Veggies:
- Bell Peppers: Any color works—these add sweetness and crunch while infusing the dish with vibrant hues.
- Onion: A medium onion adds depth of flavor; sauté until translucent for that perfect aromatic base.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by dicing your bell peppers and onion. Gather all ingredients so you can work efficiently without losing steam halfway through.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula—about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Veggies
Toss in the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables soften—around 5 minutes—while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Sprinkle taco seasoning over the cooked meat and veggies, then pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir well to combine everything evenly before letting it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
Meanwhile, boil water in a separate pot and cook shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain once done.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add cooked shell pasta into your skillet mixture along with half of your shredded cheese. Stir gently until everything is well coated in that cheesy goodness! Top with remaining cheese and cover until melted—about another minute or two.
Transfer to plates and serve hot! Drizzle with sour cream or sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an extra burst of flavor!
And there you have it—the perfect balance of simplicity and scrumptiousness encapsulated in this Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet! Grab your forks; dinner time awaits!
You Must Know
- This Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet is not just a dish; it’s a celebration in a pan.
- Quick, delicious, and customizable, you’ll never want to eat out again.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners and guaranteed to get smiles all around your table!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet. Once it’s perfectly seared, toss in your favorite vegetables and seasonings. Meanwhile, cook the pasta separately to ensure it’s al dente before mixing everything together for optimal flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter option. Add some diced bell peppers or corn for extra crunch, or sprinkle on some cheese before serving for that gooey goodness everyone loves.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep the dish moist and heat it on low until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet every time, remember to use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
- Don’t skip seasoning; it’s key to elevating flavors.
- Lastly, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving; it enhances the taste!
There was this one time I made this Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet for a potluck, and everyone went back for seconds! I even had someone ask if I could cater their next family reunion—talk about pressure!
FAQs :
What are Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet?
Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet is a one-pot meal that combines ground beef, pasta shells, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Mexican street corn salad The simplicity of the recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, ensuring that everyone at the table enjoys this hearty meal.
How long does it take to prepare Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet?
Preparing Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet typically takes around 30 minutes. This includes both the cooking and preparation time, making it an efficient option for dinner. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. It’s perfect for those who want a quick yet delicious dinner option after a long day.
Can I make Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet ahead of time. After cooking, let the dish cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheating is easy; simply warm it in a skillet or microwave until heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
What can I serve with Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet?
You can serve Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet with various side dishes to enhance your meal. A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish. For added nutrition, consider serving steamed vegetables alongside it. These options complement the flavors of the skillet and provide balance to your meal while keeping preparation simple.
Conclusion for Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet :
Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet is an easy and flavorful recipe perfect for any night of the week. Its combination of ground beef, pasta shells, and savory sauce creates a filling dish that everyone will love. You can customize it with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences. savory turkey meatballs Best of all, it comes together quickly and requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for busy families looking for delicious meals without the hassle.
Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor the comforting taste of Simple Ground Beef Shells Skillet, a delightful one-pot meal that combines savory ground beef, al dente shell pasta, and a zesty tomato sauce. Topped with melted cheese and colorful veggies, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a satisfying dinner that brings everyone to the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 oz taco seasoning (1 packet)
- 8 oz medium shell pasta
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
Instructions
- Dice the bell pepper and onion.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes, draining any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and bell pepper; sauté until softened, roughly 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over the mixture and stir in the diced tomatoes with juice; let simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Cook shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Combine cooked pasta with the skillet mixture and half of the shredded cheese; stir gently to mix well. Top with remaining cheese and cover until melted (about 2 minutes). Serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: - For a lighter option, substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken. - Add extra vegetables like corn or spinach for more nutrition. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently with a splash of water.
