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!
Author:Stephanie
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Main Course, Casserole
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American, Comfort Food
Ingredients
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
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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.
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.
Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta shells to the beef mixture and stir until well coated.
Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the pasta and beef mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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.