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Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole

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  • 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

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

  • 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.