Cheesy Beef & Shells Casserole
This Cheesy Beef & Shells Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-dish meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. With tender macaroni shells smothered in a creamy cheese sauce and layered with savory ground beef and onions, this dish is sure to satisfy the whole family. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese adds a delightful richness, making it an easy and delicious casserole that combines convenience and flavor. Serve it warm for an irresistible dinner that pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground beef
1 lb (raw)
macaroni shells and cheese box
1 (12 ounce) (prepared according to package instructions)
onion
1 (chopped)
cheddar cheese
2 cups (shredded)
cream of chicken soup
1 (10 ounce) can (ready to use)
garlic
1 tablespoon (minced)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large skillet, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess grease.
3
In a separate pot, cook the macaroni shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain the shells and mix in the cheese powder and a bit of shredded cheddar. Set aside.
4
Return to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir in the cream of chicken soup and minced garlic. Simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5
In a greased casserole dish, begin layering. Start with a layer of the beef mixture, then a layer of the macaroni shells, continuing to alternate layers as desired. Sprinkle a little shredded cheese between each layer.
6
Once all ingredients are layered, top the casserole with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8
Once removed from the oven, let the casserole stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Beef & Shells Casserole?
It is a hearty and comforting one-dish meal featuring macaroni shells in a creamy cheese sauce layered with savory ground beef and onions.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
What kind of meat is used in this casserole?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of ground beef.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While the recipe specifies macaroni shells from a shells and cheese box, you can use other small pasta shapes, though the cheese powder from the box is a key ingredient.
Do I need to cook the pasta before baking?
Yes, the macaroni shells should be cooked according to package directions until al dente before being added to the casserole.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
It should bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What type of soup is required for the sauce?
The recipe uses one 10-ounce can of cream of chicken soup.
How much cheese is needed for the topping and layers?
You will need 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Should I drain the grease from the ground beef?
Yes, you should drain any excess grease after browning the beef and onions.
How much garlic is included in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of minced garlic.
What size is the macaroni shells and cheese box?
The recipe specifies a 12-ounce box.
Is there onion in this dish?
Yes, one chopped onion is cooked along with the ground beef.
How should the casserole be layered?
Start with a layer of the beef mixture, followed by the macaroni shells, alternating as desired with shredded cheese between each layer.
Why should I let the casserole stand after baking?
Letting it stand for 5 to 10 minutes allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken if preferred.
Is this a good recipe for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is designed as an easy and quick one-dish meal for family dinners.
What are some recommended side dishes?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, fresh minced garlic works perfectly in this recipe.
How long do I simmer the beef mixture?
The beef, soup, and garlic mixture should simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes.
What type of cheddar cheese is best?
Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for a more delightful richness.
Do I need to grease the baking dish?
Yes, the casserole dish should be greased before layering the ingredients.
What does al dente mean for the pasta?
It means cooking the pasta so it is still firm to the bite, which prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
While not in the original recipe, you could easily add peas, corn, or bell peppers to the beef mixture.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food due to its cheesy, hearty nature.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to bake.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Does this recipe use the cheese powder from the macaroni box?
Yes, the cheese powder is mixed into the cooked shells along with some shredded cheddar.
Can I use cream of mushroom soup instead?
Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can be used as a substitute for cream of chicken.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the combination of beef, pasta, and plenty of cheese makes it a favorite for children.