Cheesy Beef Pasta Casserole (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Pasta & Meat Base
01 -
12 ounces (340g) medium pasta shells
02 -
1 pound (450g) ground beef
03 -
1 small onion, finely diced
04 -
2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
→ Sauce Components
05 -
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with their juices
06 -
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
07 -
1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
08 -
1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
→ Cheese Blend
09 -
2 cups (200g) cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
10 -
1 cup (100g) mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
→ Seasonings
11 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
12 -
1/2 teaspoon paprika
13 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
14 -
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
15 -
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Begin by warming your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give your 9x13-inch casserole dish a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.
02 -
Boil your pasta shells in well-salted water until just al dente - they'll continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
03 -
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown your ground beef with diced onion until the meat is cooked through and the onions are translucent. Add your minced garlic for the final minute, letting its aroma bloom. Drain any excess fat.
04 -
Into your meat mixture, stir the diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and sour cream. Season with Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer gently, allowing all those flavors to become best friends.
05 -
Fold your cooked pasta shells into the rich sauce until every shell is beautifully coated. Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking dish, then blanket it with your duo of shredded cheeses.
06 -
Let your casserole bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese has melted into a golden, bubbly crust.
07 -
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, adding color and freshness to your bubbling masterpiece. Serve while hot and cheese is at its melty best!
# Notes:
01 -
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist
02 -
Make it extra hearty by adding your favorite vegetables like peas, corn, or mushrooms
03 -
For ultimate creaminess, mix in 1/4 cup cream cheese with the sauce