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Creamy Beef Shells Casserole

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A satisfying and hearty casserole featuring tender pasta shells stuffed with a creamy cheese blend and topped with a savory beef mixture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  5. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
  6. Mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and heavy cream until smooth.
  7. Stuff each shell with the cheese mixture.
  8. Spread a layer of the beef mixture on the bottom of the baking dish and arrange stuffed shells on top.
  9. Pour remaining beef mixture over the shells and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella.
  10. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil in the last 5 minutes.
  11. Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley.

Notes

Consider adding red pepper flakes or vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition. Can prepare beef mixture and cheese stuffing ahead of time.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yummyfirst.com/creamy-beef-shells-casserole-beef-casserole/