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Creamy Beef Shells Casserole

A creamy and hearty casserole filled with tender pasta shells and a savory beef mixture, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Beef Mixture
  • 12 pieces large pasta shells
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar or a cheese blend
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 jar marinara sauce about 24 oz
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta shells for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain, rinse, and set aside.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix well until combined.
  5. Spoon the beef mixture into each pasta shell and place them in a greased baking dish. Repeat until all shells are filled.
Baking
  1. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
  2. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  3. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Make ahead by assembling in the morning and bake at dinner time. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze unbaked for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.