Creamy Beef Shells Casserole

In the realm of home cooking, few things evoke a sense of warmth and comfort quite like a hearty casserole. These dishes, deeply rooted in culinary tradition, have become synonymous with family gatherings, cozy weeknight dinners, and the kind of meals that bring people together around the table. Among the many variations of casserole recipes, Creamy Beef Shells Casserole stands out as a delightful and satisfying dish that combines rich flavors and diverse textures. This creamy, cheesy casserole is not just a meal; it's a comforting embrace on a plate.

Indulge in the comforting goodness of Creamy Beef Shells Casserole, a delightful dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. This easy recipe combines jumbo pasta shells with a rich filling of seasoned ground beef and a creamy cheese blend, all topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. Explore the simple steps to create this satisfying meal that beautifully fuses flavors and textures, making every bite feel like a warm embrace. Perfect for sharing with loved ones!

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Ingredients

12 oz jumbo pasta shells

1 lb ground beef

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup sour cream

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup marinara sauce

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 9-11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta shells and set them aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onions become fragrant and translucent. Introduce the ground beef along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well blended and creamy.

Assemble the Casserole: Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Take each cooked shell and fill it generously with the beef mixture, followed by a spoonful of the cheese mixture. Carefully place each stuffed shell, open side up, into the baking dish.

Top with Sauce and Cheese: Once all the shells are arranged in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells. Finish off by sprinkling the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.

Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and has turned a lovely golden brown.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully take the dish out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish the casserole with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite of your delicious beef shells casserole!

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6