Description
This Chili Garlic Beef and Shells recipe combines tender pasta shells with a savory ground beef mixture seasoned with chili and garlic powders, Italian herbs, and a creamy tomato sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy and flavorful weeknight dinner option that can be garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for an added touch of freshness.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8-10 ounces medium pasta shells
Beef Mixture
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 10-12 cranks fresh-ground black pepper
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Garnish (Optional)
- Parmesan cheese
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of water with a generous pinch of salt. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onions: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula until browned evenly.
- Add Seasonings and Tomato Sauce: Stir in the chili powder, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Pour in the tomato sauce, stir well, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish with Cream and Combine: Stir in the heavy cream until warmed through. Add the drained pasta shells to the skillet and mix well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the dish and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or other preferred herbs before serving.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the dish healthier.
- For a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative for lighter or dietary preferences.
- Fresh herbs add brightness and freshness, but they are optional if you don’t have any on hand.
- Pasta shells can be replaced with another medium-sized pasta shape if preferred.
- Make sure not to overcook pasta; al dente texture holds up better when mixed with sauce.
