INSTRUCTIONS:

1st Step

Start by bringing a large kettle of salted water to a simmer. Once it reaches a roiling boil, add the pasta shells and prepare them according to the package instructions until they are al dente (firm to the bite). The cooked pasta should be drained and set aside.

2nd Step

Warm the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or sauté pan. Add the ground beef and sauté it until it is no longer pink, dividing it up with a spatula as it cooks until it is browned. Get rid of any excess fat.

3rd Step

Add the onion and garlic to the beef in the skillet after it has been seared. Until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes aromatic, sauté for two to three minutes.

4th Step

Incorporate the pulverized and diced tomatoes, if using. These ingredients will create a flavorful sauce foundation. In a skillet, combine the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to incorporate.

5th Step

Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 15 to 20 minutes to enable the flavors to combine and the sauce to thicken. Stir periodically.

6th Step

Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, add the prepared pasta shells to the saucepan. Toss gently to evenly saturate the pasta with the meat sauce.