Description
This Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish loaded with tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and is sure to be a family favorite!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz (340g) medium pasta shells
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
- 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
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Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Cook the Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
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Make the Sauce:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Combine with Pasta:
- Add the cooked pasta shells to the beef mixture and stir until well coated.
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Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the pasta and beef mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
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Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve:
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Make it spicy: Add 1/2 tsp of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Add veggies: Stir in cooked peas, corn, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Make it creamy: Add 1/4 cup of cream cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess.