My Family Asks for This Pasta Every Weekend! So Easy and Incredibly Delicious!

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter (optional, for sautéing)
• 1 Large Onion (finely chopped)
• 1 lb Ground Beef (80% lean, minced)
• to taste Salt (plus 1 tsp for pasta water)
• to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 2 Garlic Cloves (sliced or minced)
• 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
• 0.5 tsp Italian Herbs (dried blend (oregano, basil, thyme))
• 450 g Marinara Sauce (or passata)
• 120 ml Heavy Cream (about ½ cup)
• a handful Fresh Basil Leaves (torn)
• to serve Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
• 220 g Conchiglie Pasta (shell‑shaped, any brand)
• 4 L Water (for boiling pasta)

Instructions

1. Heat Pan and Add Butter

   Place a frying pan over medium‑high heat and add 1 tbsp unsalted butter. Let it melt and coat the pan.

   Time: PT1M

2. Chop Onion

   Finely chop the large onion while the pan heats.

   Time: PT5M

3. Sauté Onion

   Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook 4–5 minutes, stirring, until golden and translucent.

   Time: PT5M

4. Boil Pasta Water

   In a large pot, bring 4 L water to a boil, add 1 tsp salt, and prepare for the pasta.

   Time: PT5M

5. Cook Ground Beef

   Add 1 lb ground beef to the pan, season with salt and black pepper, and break up any lumps with a spatula. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring often, until browned.

   Time: PT8M

6. Add Garlic

   Stir in the 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

   Time: PT1M

7. Incorporate Tomato Paste, Mustard, and Herbs

   Add 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, and ½ tsp Italian herbs. Stir well for about 30 seconds.

   Time: PT1M

8. Add Marinara and Simmer

   Pour in 450 g marinara sauce, mix, and let the mixture simmer for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   Time: PT5M

9. Finish with Heavy Cream

   Stir in ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and glossy.

   Time: PT3M

10. Cook Pasta and Combine

    Add conchiglie pasta to the boiling water, cook al dente according to package (about 9–11 minutes). Drain, then add the pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat, add torn fresh basil leaves, and adjust seasoning.

    Time: PT10M

11. Serve

    Plate the pasta, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy immediately.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

620

Protein

32 g

Carbohydrates

55 g

Fat

26 g

Fiber

4 g