If you have been searching for a comforting, flavorful, and wonderfully creamy dish that fits perfectly into your gluten free lifestyle, then this Gluten Free Italian Shells and Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender pasta shells made from chickpeas, rich tomato sauce, seasoned ground beef, and gooey melted cheese that creates a satisfying experience in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or whipping up something special for friends, this recipe hits all the marks with layers of Italian-inspired goodness and without a trace of gluten.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful balance of ingredients, each playing a unique role in building the final layers of texture and flavor.
- Banza pasta shells: These gluten free chickpea shells hold sauce beautifully while adding extra protein and fiber to the dish.
- Lean ground beef: Provides a hearty base with plenty of savory depth.
- Small can of tomato sauce (8 oz): The tangy and slightly sweet tomato sauce is the heart of Italian flavor here.
- Heavy whipping cream: Adds richness and a velvety texture that turns this into comfort food royalty.
- Shredded cheddar or colby jack cheese: Melts into creamy, golden goodness with a mild tanginess that compliments the seasonings.
- Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme brings that unmistakable Italian flair.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a savory punch without overwhelming the dish.
- Onion powder: Offers a gentle sweetness and depth to the meat sauce.
- Salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.
How to Make Gluten Free Italian Shells and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the Banza pasta shells in salted water according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain them well and set aside. This pasta is sturdy and nutty-tasting, making it the perfect gluten free vessel for all your savory fillings.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks for an even texture. This cooking step releases a rich, meaty flavor that will be the foundation of your sauce.
Step 3: Season and Add Tomato Sauce
Add the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked beef. Stir everything together, then pour in the tomato sauce. Let this simmer gently for about five minutes to marry the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Combine with Pasta and Half the Cheese
Pour the cooked pasta shells directly into the skillet with the beef sauce and stir in half of the shredded cheese. This melting cheese blends the pasta and sauce, giving the dish a creamy, satisfying feel from the inside out.
Step 5: Add Heavy Cream and Stir
Pour in the heavy whipping cream and give the mixture another good stir. This step elevates your dish with an indulgent richness that contrasts perfectly with the tangy tomato base.
Step 6: Top with Remaining Cheese and Broil
Transfer everything to an oven-safe dish if your skillet isn’t ovenproof, then sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Place under a broiler for just a few minutes until the cheese bubbles and develops those irresistible golden brown spots.
How to Serve Gluten Free Italian Shells and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves on top for a bright burst of color and herbal freshness that contrasts deliciously with the rich cheese and beef sauce. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil also adds a beautiful glossy finish and subtle fruity notes.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple sauté of garlic and spinach. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add both sweetness and a bit of crunch, rounding out the meal perfectly without overpowering the shells and cheese.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, spoon the mixture into individual ramekins and broil them separately for personal servings. Alternatively, layer the pasta in a casserole dish topped with slices of fresh mozzarella and bake for a more decadent Italian-style bake that’s guaranteed to wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors often deepen as it sits.
Freezing
This Gluten Free Italian Shells and Cheese Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk or cream before reheating helps maintain creaminess, while covering the dish with foil during baking prevents the cheese from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of gluten free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Banza shells work wonderfully due to their shape and texture, other gluten free pastas like penne or fusilli will also deliver tasty results. Just adjust cooking times according to the package instructions.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Gluten Free Italian Shells and Cheese Recipe?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. The tomato sauce and cheese will continue to provide rich, comforting flavors.
Can I use low-fat dairy or dairy substitutes?
You can certainly experiment with reduced-fat cheese and cream alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream. Keep in mind these changes may alter the dish’s creaminess and flavor slightly.
What makes this recipe Italian-inspired?
The use of Italian seasoning, garlic, onion powders, and tomato sauce layer in classic Italian flavors that marry beautifully with pasta and cheese. It’s a simplified take on the traditional Italian baked pasta but perfectly adapted for gluten free diets.
How spicy is the dish?
The recipe is mildly seasoned with just a hint of pepper’s warmth, so it’s friendly for all palates. You can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a touch of heat if you enjoy spicier foods.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten Free Italian Shells and Cheese Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorites for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. It’s a heartwarming bowl of deliciousness that proves gluten free cooking can be just as exciting, indulgent, and satisfying as any traditional pasta dish. You owe it to yourself to try it soon and discover your new go-to comfort meal.
Print
Gluten Free Italian Shells and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Gluten Free Italian Shells and Cheese recipe features nutritious Banza pasta shells combined with savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese, all seasoned with Italian herbs and spices. It’s a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for a quick family dinner that’s both satisfying and gluten-free.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 box Banza pasta shells
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 small can tomato sauce (8 oz)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or colby jack cheese
Seasonings
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Banza pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until fully browned. Drain any excess fat. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef, stirring well to combine.
- Add tomato sauce and simmer: Pour in the small can of tomato sauce and stir to combine. Reduce heat and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine pasta and cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir in half of the shredded cheese, mixing all ingredients thoroughly to combine.
- Incorporate heavy cream: Pour in the heavy whipping cream and stir again, ensuring the sauce becomes creamy and well blended with the pasta and beef.
- Broil with remaining cheese: Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish if your skillet is not broiler safe. Top with the remaining shredded cheese. Place under the broiler for 2-4 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Notes
- You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if desired.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes when seasoning the beef.
- Make sure to use gluten-free pasta like Banza to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
- If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake at 400°F for about 5-7 minutes or until cheese melts.
