This delightful recipe brings together tender conchiglie pasta, spiced ground beef, and a rich creamy sauce finished with a golden cheese crust. It is the perfect fusion of comfort food and gourmet flavors. The conchiglie shells capture the creamy sauce beautifully, while the spiced beef adds a savory kick. Topped with melted cheese, this dish makes an impressive family dinner or a comforting weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
- 300g conchiglie pasta (shell-shaped pasta)
- 400g ground beef
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 250ml heavy cream
- 100ml milk
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan, add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until golden. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in paprika, cumin, chili flakes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
- In a saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour, and gradually add milk and cream to create a smooth sauce. Stir until thickened, then add half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix the cooked pasta, creamy sauce, and spiced beef together. Transfer to a baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella and cheddar, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes until the cheese forms a golden crust. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Servings
Serves 4 people
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Calcium: 180mg
Notes
This recipe works best with conchiglie pasta, but penne or rigatoni can be used as substitutes. The cheese crust can be customized with parmesan for an extra sharp flavor.
Tips
Cook the pasta slightly under al dente before baking, as it will continue cooking in the oven. For extra creaminess, stir a little cream cheese into the sauce before baking. To make it spicier, increase chili flakes or add chopped jalapeños.
Health Benefits
This dish offers a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. The beef provides iron and high-quality protein for muscle health. Cheese delivers calcium and essential vitamins for bone strength. Garlic and onion add natural antioxidants that support immunity. Though indulgent, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a wholesome, energy-rich diet.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: What cheese works best for the crust?
A: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar is ideal, but parmesan or gouda can be added for depth.
Q: Can I replace beef with another protein?
A: Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well.
Q: How do I make it lighter?
A: Substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk and use lean beef or turkey.
Q: Can this be frozen?
A: Absolutely, just bake, cool completely, and freeze in portions for up to 2 months.