Baked Shells with Pesto, Mozzarella, and Meat Sauce: A Comforting Pasta Dish

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Assemble the Dish:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Stuff each pasta shell with a generous amount of meat sauce, then place the stuffed shells into the baking dish.

Add the Pesto and Cheese:
Drizzle pesto over the stuffed shells, and top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.

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. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to get the top golden and crispy.

Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped basil before serving. Enjoy this flavorful, comforting dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Serving and Storage Tips