Baked Shells With Pesto Mozzarella And Meat Sauce Recipe

Ingredients for Baked Shells With Pesto Mozzarella And Meat Sauce

• Cooking Oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• Ground Beef
• Canned Tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Pesto Sauce
• Medium Pasta Shell
• Mozzarella Cheese
• Parmesan Cheese

How to Make Baked Shells With Pesto Mozzarella And Meat Sauce

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly oil a large 9x13 inch baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat.
4. Add 1 medium onion, chopped, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
6. Stir in 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a simmer.
7. Simmer until sauce has thickened slightly, about 10 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup pesto.
9. Meanwhile, cook 1 pound jumbo pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
10. Toss the cooked pasta with the meat sauce.
11. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
12. Top with half of 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, shredded, and 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese.
13. Repeat layers with remaining pasta mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
14. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.