Name: Creamy Beef Shells Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 12 oz large pasta shells; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Creamy Beef Shells Casserole

Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and home. This delightfully rich dish features large pasta shells stuffed with a creamy cheese mixture, nestled in a savory beef and tomato sauce. Every bite is tender and satisfying, combining the flavors of well-seasoned ground beef and creamy ricotta that will leave you craving more.

Why should you make this dish? Because it’s not just a meal; it’s a moment to gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy a delicious homemade dinner. Plus, it’s a recipe that’s simple enough for weeknights yet special enough for family gatherings. With this step-by-step guide, preparing Creamy Beef Shells Casserole has never been easier!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Beef Shells Casserole offers numerous benefits that make it a fantastic choice for any occasion. First and foremost, it requires minimal prep time and ingredients, making it approachable even for novice cooks. The recipe is perfect for families, pleasing both kids and adults alike with its decadent flavors and satisfying textures.

Moreover, this dish is extremely filling and can be made in advance, leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy. It’s a traditional meal that embraces the comfort of home cooking while allowing for some creative freedom. If you’re looking to create something special without the fuss, this casserole is your answer!

Ingredients for Creamy Beef Shells Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

1 lb ground beef – The hearty base of the casserole which offers rustic flavors.
12 oz large pasta shells – Perfectly formed to hold all your delicious fillings.
1 medium onion, diced – Adds a sweet and savory depth to the dish.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the casserole with a pleasant aroma.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Brings moisture and a burst of flavor.
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce – A smooth counterpart to the chunky tomatoes.
1 tbsp tomato paste – Concentrated tomato flavor enhances richness.
1 tsp dried basil – Offers a classic Italian herb profile.
1 tsp dried oregano – Complements the basil for an aromatic touch.
1/2 tsp salt – Essential seasoning to taste.
1/4 tsp black pepper – A hint of spice for balance.
1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese – Creamy and luscious filling in the pasta.
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey topping.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty kick.
1 cup heavy cream – Makes the cheese filling incredibly smooth.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Brightens the dish with freshness.

Step-by-Step Directions for Creamy Beef Shells Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells until al dente. Follow package instructions. Drain the shells and set aside to cool slightly.
In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant. Next, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer on low for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
While the beef mixture simmers, prepare the creamy filling. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Now, it’s time to stuff the shells! Carefully spoon the creamy cheese mixture into each pasta shell, ensuring they’re generously filled.
In the greased baking dish, spread a layer of the beef mixture. Arrange the stuffed pasta shells on top in a single layer.
Pour the remaining beef mixture over the stuffed shells, covering them evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that irresistible cheesy crust.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. For the last 5 minutes, remove the foil to allow the cheese to brown and bubble up.
Once baked, let it sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Tips & Tricks

For a perfectly creamy filling, make sure to blend the ricotta cheese with heavy cream until smooth. You can also sneak in some finely chopped spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition without altering the flavor too much.

If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked ground beef or substitute turkey for a leaner option. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a fun flavor twist. To save on time during busy weeknights, partially prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving with a glass of your favorite sparkling water or a fruity mocktail to elevate the dining experience. For a rustic touch, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes on top adds just the right amount of spice.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Creamy Beef Shells Casserole packs a flavorful punch while providing a satisfying balance of nutrients. A typical serving (1/8th of the casserole) contains approximately 450-500 calories, providing protein from beef and cheese, carbohydrates from pasta, and essential vitamins from tomatoes and herbs. It’s a delicious way to indulge without completely compromising your dietary goals!

Storing Tips & Variations for Creamy Beef Shells Casserole

Storing leftovers is straightforward. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days and can also be frozen for up to two months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until hot.

For a healthier swap, try whole wheat pasta or experiment with cottage cheese instead of ricotta. For an Italian twist, use classic marinara sauce or add more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini into the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion for Creamy Beef Shells Casserole

Now that you’ve got the scoop on Creamy Beef Shells Casserole, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive into this comforting dish! With its delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and savory beef, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step directions, and treat your loved ones to a delicious meal they’ll be talking about for days!

FAQs

1. Can I make Creamy Beef Shells Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the whole dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge or has been frozen.

2. Can I substitute the pasta shells for something else?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta, such as rigatoni or penne. Just keep in mind you may need to adjust cooking times based on pasta shape and size.

3. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with lentils or finely chopped vegetables and continue with the recipe as usual for a delicious vegetarian option.

4. How can I make this casserole spicier?
If you like a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or mixing in some diced jalapeños with the cheese filling for extra kick.

5. What can I serve with Creamy Beef Shells Casserole?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies. A light, refreshing drink will balance out the richness of the casserole beautifully!