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This creamy beef shells casserole is rich, comforting, and perfect for weeknights or family gatherings. Easy to make

Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole Recipe


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  • Author: Natasha eva
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6

Description

Make this rich and creamy beef shells casserole for a hearty family dinner. Easy, comforting, and packed with flavor!


Ingredients

For the Casserole:

✅ 8 ounces (about 2 cups) medium pasta shells
✅ 1 pound ground beef
✅ 1 small onion, finely chopped
✅ 2 garlic cloves, minced
✅ 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
✅ 1 cup sour cream
✅ ½ cup cream cheese, softened
✅ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
✅ ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
✅ 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
✅ Salt and pepper to taste
✅ 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Optional Garnish:

✅ Fresh parsley for serving


Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

2️⃣ Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the pasta shells until al dente, according to package instructions.
  • Drain and set aside.

3️⃣ Prepare the Beef Mixture:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
  • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles.
  • Drain any excess grease, then stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.

4️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream and cream cheese until smooth.
  • Stir this creamy mixture into the beef and tomato sauce in the skillet, mixing until fully incorporated.

5️⃣ Assemble the Casserole:

  • Layer half of the cooked pasta shells in the prepared baking dish.
  • Pour half of the beef and cream mixture over the pasta.
  • Repeat with the remaining pasta and sauce.
  • Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

6️⃣ Bake the Casserole:

  • Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil.
  • Bake for 20 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7️⃣ Garnish and Serve:

  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Cook Pasta to Al Dente: Prevent the pasta from becoming mushy by cooking it just until al dente.
  • Full-Fat Dairy Recommended: For the creamiest results, use full-fat sour cream and cream cheese.
  • Storage:
    • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
    • To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Cuisine: American