This Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a luscious, cheesy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Beef:
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Toppings (Optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a crispy topping