why make this recipe
Italian Sausage and Shells is a delicious and comforting meal that combines hearty sausages with pasta in a flavorful tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners as it is filling, easy to prepare, and loved by both kids and adults. It brings together the rich flavors of Italian cuisine in a simple, one-pot meal that makes cleanup a breeze.
how to make Italian Sausage and Shells
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Ingredients :
- 8 ounces pasta shells
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions :
- In a large pot, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Add the pasta shells, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
how to serve Italian Sausage and Shells
Serve Italian Sausage and Shells hot, straight from the pot. It goes well with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad. You can sprinkle extra cheese or crushed red pepper on top for added flavor.
how to store Italian Sausage and Shells
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
tips to make Italian Sausage and Shells
- To add extra flavor, you can include chopped bell peppers or mushrooms when sautéing the onions.
- If you prefer a creamy sauce, you can mix in a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese before serving.
- For a bit of heat, you can choose spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
variation
You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, if you want a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of small pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything except for the cheese ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and add the cheese before serving.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, most kids enjoy Italian Sausage and Shells because of its cheesy goodness and familiar flavors. You can also reduce the spices if you want to make it milder.
Italian Sausage and Shells
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta shells
- 1 pound Italian sausage Can be spicy or mild based on preference.
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth Can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Cooking the Sausage
- In a large pot, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Sautéing Vegetables
- Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft.
Making the Sauce
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Cooking the Pasta
- Add the pasta shells, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
Finishing Touches
- Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
Garnishing
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.