Baked Shells with Pesto, Mozzarella, and Meat Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. Cook Ground Meat: In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked meat and onions. Stir in the basil pesto until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

1. Layer Pasta and Sauce: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange half of the cooked pasta shells in a single layer over the sauce.
2. Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pasta shells. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the cheese layer.
3. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of pasta shells, followed by the remaining meat sauce. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bake

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Uncover and Finish: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Let the baked shells with pesto, mozzarella, and meat sauce cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot, portioned onto plates or bowls.

Tips for Perfect Baked Shells with Pesto, Mozzarella, and Meat Sauce:

• Pesto Choice: Use store-bought or homemade basil pesto for a burst of fresh herb flavor.
• Cheese: Feel free to add more cheese or experiment with different types such as provolone or fontina for a richer flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and double the amount of pesto for a vegetarian version, or add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for extra texture.

Enjoy this delicious baked shells dish with pesto, mozzarella, and meat sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal!