Certainly! Let’s dive into the delightful recipe for Pasta Shells and Peppers, a comforting dish that combines pasta, cheese, and the fresh flavors of green peppers and tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish. 🍝🧀🌶️🍅
Recipe: Pasta Shells and Peppers
Total Time: 35 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | medium pasta shell |
| 4 | green peppers |
| 1 tbsp | butter |
| 1 can (14 oz) | crushed tomatoes |
| 1 1/2 tsp | sugar |
| 1 tsp | salt |
| 1/4 tsp | black pepper |
| 1 cup | process American cheese |
| To taste | fresh oregano |
| To taste | fresh basil |
Instructions
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Cook Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta shells according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare Peppers: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the green peppers. Wash them thoroughly, remove the seeds, and dice them into small pieces.
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Saute Peppers: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced green peppers and saute for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they are crisp-tender and slightly caramelized.
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Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and black pepper into the skillet with the sauteed peppers. Allow the mixture to heat through, blending the flavors together.
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Melt Cheese: Drain the cooked pasta shells well and return them to the pot. Add the American cheese to the pasta, stirring constantly over low heat until the cheese is fully melted and coats the pasta evenly.
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Combine and Serve: Spoon the creamy cheese-coated pasta into individual serving bowls. Top each serving generously with the warm tomato and pepper mixture.
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Garnish: For a burst of fresh flavor, garnish each bowl with chopped fresh oregano and basil leaves according to your taste preference.
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Serve Hot: Serve immediately while it’s hot and the cheese is gooey and delicious.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 601.2
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13.2g
- Cholesterol: 53.5mg
- Sodium: 1898.6mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 75.3g
- Dietary Fiber: 5.6g
- Sugars: 14.8g
- Protein: 26.5g
Tips for Success
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Cheese Choice: Use high-quality process American cheese for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
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Fresh Herbs: Don’t skip the fresh oregano and basil garnish; they add a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the cheese and tomatoes.
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Customization: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar and seasonings according to your taste preferences.
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Storage: This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pasta Shells and Peppers alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a complete meal. Pair it with garlic bread or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
This recipe is a wonderful balance of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and the bright, slightly sweet flavors of peppers and tomatoes. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s sure to become a favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Enjoy creating this easy-to-make yet flavorful meal! 🍴
