Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef

Ingredients

• 7-8 ounces (200-225g) jumbo pasta shells ((14-16 shells))
• ½ pound (225g) lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, (diced (about 1 cup))
• 2 teaspoons (10g) garlic, (minced)
• 1 teaspoon (4g) Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon (1g) dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon (16g) tomato paste
• 1½ cups (225g) spaghetti sauce
• salt and pepper (to taste)
• 4-5 leaves fresh basil
• 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach (loosely packed)
• ½ cup (60g) mozzarella cheese, (shredded)
• ½ cup (50g) parmesan cheese, (grated)
• 2 tablespoons (8g) fresh parsley

Steps

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 400℉ (205℃). Cook pasta shells according to the instructions on the package.

2. 2

   While the shells are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef until evenly browned, 2-3 minutes.

3. 3

   Add the onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, thyme, tomato paste, ½ cup of spaghetti sauce (reserving the rest), salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, and add the fresh basil and spinach. Cook until wilted.

4. 4

   When the shells and the meat sauce are ready, place the shells face up into a large baking dish. Stuff 1½ tablespoons of meat mixture into the opening of each shell.

5. 5

   Spoon the reserved spaghetti sauce on top.

6. 6

   Mix the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan and sprinkle it on top. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheeses melt and start to brown.

7. 7

   Remove from heat and let the stuffed shells rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot.