Italian Wedding Cake

Ingredients and Weights:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pound medium pasta shells
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

60 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Cook the pasta shells according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
6. Spread 1 cup of the sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with half of the pasta shells.
8. Spread with half of the remaining sauce.
9. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
10. Repeat layers.
11. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 25 grams
• Fat: 20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and flavorful sauce
• Tender pasta shells
• Melted and bubbly cheese
• Classic Italian flavors

User Comments:

• "This is the best Italian wedding cake I've ever had!"
• "The sauce is so delicious and the pasta is cooked perfectly."
• "I love the combination of the beef and sausage."
• "This is a great dish for a special occasion or a casual dinner."
• "I highly recommend trying this recipe."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use ground beef that is at least 80% lean to reduce the fat content.
• If you don't have Italian sausage, you can substitute breakfast sausage or ground pork.
• You can also add other vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots.
• If you want a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Let the Italian wedding cake cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.