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Creamy Beef Shells Casserole

Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is a delightful dish that combines a hearty sauce with creamy cheese, creating a comforting experience perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef Tender and juicy for a substantial feel.
  • 12 oz large pasta shells A perfect vessel to hold all the delightful filling.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Infuses an aromatic burst.
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes Brightens the mix with its vibrant acidity.
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce Lends sauciness to bind the dish.
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste Intensifies the tomato flavor.
  • 1 tsp dried basil Offers a hint of herbaceous freshness.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Adds warmth and earthiness.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Enhances all the flavors.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper A dash of spice for balance.
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese Creamy and smooth, making the filling luscious.
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melts beautifully, giving that gooey texture.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese A sharp bite to complement the dish.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Richness for a creamy texture.
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped For garnish; a fresh finish that brightens it up.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they soften.
  4. Add the ground beef into the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  5. Mix in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper, and let simmer for about 10 minutes.
  6. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and heavy cream. Stir until smooth.
  7. Stuff each pasta shell generously with the cheese mixture.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Spread a layer of the beef mixture at the bottom of the greased baking dish.
  2. Place the stuffed shells on top, then pour the remaining beef mixture over them.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top layer.
  4. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. In the last 5 minutes, remove the foil to let the cheese become golden.
  5. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley and serving.

Notes

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes. Consider adding chopped spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. Prepare in advance and refrigerate overnight for best results.