“I’ve been making this at least twice a week for the past month!”

 

The Recipe I Can't Stop Making: Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole

“I’ve been making this at least twice a week for the past month!”

Yes, it’s that good. When you find a recipe that hits all the right notes — easy, comforting, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious — it’s hard not to keep going back to it. And this Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole is exactly that kind of meal.

Whether you're feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week, or just need something cozy and satisfying after a long day, this recipe is pure gold. Every time I make it, someone asks for the recipe — and I totally get why. It's creamy, cheesy, hearty, and filled with the kind of flavors that make you feel like you're home.

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🥄 Why I Keep Making It (And You Might Too)

• Quick to prep — Most of the work is done in under 15 minutes.

• Crowd-pleaser — Even picky eaters go back for seconds.

• Slow cooker convenience — Set it and forget it!

• Leftovers = awesome — It reheats beautifully.

• Comfort food vibes — Creamy pasta + savory beef = magic.

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🍝 Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole (Slow Cooker Style)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 ½ cups uncooked pasta shells

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup sour cream

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Brown the Beef:
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess fat. Add garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for 1 minute more.

2. Slow Cooker Magic:
   Transfer beef mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in soup, diced tomatoes, and broth. Mix well.

3. Cook Time:
   Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.

4. Add Pasta:
   About 30 minutes before serving, stir in uncooked pasta shells. Cover and cook until pasta is tender.

5. Finish It Off:
   Stir in shredded cheese and sour cream until melted and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
   Scoop into bowls and top with fresh parsley if you like!

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💡 Tips & Tricks

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

• Want more veggies? Stir in frozen peas, corn, or spinach with the pasta.

• Don’t have shells? Use elbow macaroni or rotini — still delicious.

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🧊 Storage & Leftovers

Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.

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❤️ Final Thoughts

I never planned on making this every few days — it just sort of happened. It's the kind of meal you look forward to, even after a long day. You can dress it up, keep it simple, serve it with garlic bread or salad, or just eat it straight from the bowl in your coziest pajamas. No judgment here.

So if you’re looking for a new dinner staple — one that’s earned a spot in my regular rotation (twice a week, no shame!) — give this Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole a try. Your tastebuds will thank you.