Description
A hearty and comforting one-pan casserole featuring savory ground beef, tender pasta shells, a rich tomato-cream sauce, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
8 oz (225g) medium pasta shells, uncooked
2 cups (480ml) beef broth
1 (15 oz / 425g) can tomato sauce
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
1 1/2 cups (170g) cheddar cheese, shredded
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
Stir in broth, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and pasta shells.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until pasta is tender.
Stir in the heavy cream and half of the cheese.
Top with remaining cheese, cover, and let sit until melted.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt, avoiding anti-caking agents found in pre-shredded varieties.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sodium: 630mg
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: creamy ground beef, shells casserole, beef and pasta, cheesy beef, easy dinner, family meal, one-pan casserole, comfort food
