beefy stuffed shells

How To Make beefy stuffed shells

• Step 1
  Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat a 2-quart square baking dish with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
• Step 2
  Cook pasta according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water; drain again. Set aside.
• Step 3
  Meanwhile, in a medium skillet cook ground beef until brown, using a wooden spoon to break up meat as it cooks. Drain off fat. Set meat aside.
• Step 4
  In a large nonstick skillet heat oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, carrot, celery, garlic, and Italian seasoning; cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until tender, stirring frequently. Add diced tomatoes and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook and stir for 2 minutes more. Remove from heat; cool slightly.
• Step 5
  Spoon the tomato mixture into a blender or food processor; cover and blend or process until nearly smooth. Set aside 3/4 cup of the pureed tomato mixture.
• Step 6
  Return the remaining pureed tomato mixture to the skillet. Stir cooked meat into tomato mixture in skillet. Spoon a rounded tablespoon of the meat mixture into each pasta shell.
• Step 7
  Arrange filled pasta shells in prepared baking dish. Spoon the reserved 3/4 cup pureed tomato mixture over the shells.
• Step 8
  Cover; bake for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese and fresh tomato. Bake about 5 minutes more or until heated through and cheese is melted. If desired, sprinkle with basil.
• Last Step: Don't forget to share! Post a picture of your finished recipe here and on your favorite social network. Don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes!