Creamy Beef and Pasta Casserole

This Creamy Beef and Pasta Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish made with pasta, seasoned beef, and a creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheese. It’s a perfect one-pot meal that’s simple to make and sure to satisfy your hunger. With its rich, cheesy, and savory flavors, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
2 cups pasta (such as conchiglie, shells, or rotini)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix), shredded
1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Salt, to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are softened and the beef is fully cooked.
Season the Beef:
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well and cook for another minute to allow the spices to release their flavors.
Make the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the heavy cream and sour cream to the beef mixture, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Combine Pasta and Beef:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir well to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce.
Top with Cheese:
- Transfer the beef and pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes:

Pasta Options: Feel free to use any pasta you like, such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni.
Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to spice up the dish.

Tips:

For a Crispy Topping: To get a crispy, golden topping, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
Add More Cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add more shredded cheese or a cheese blend for extra creaminess and flavor.
Meal Prep: This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Servings:

This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Nutritional Info (Approximate per serving):

Calories: 450
Carbs: 40g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

Benefits:

Rich in Protein: The ground beef provides a good amount of protein to support muscle repair and overall health.
High in Calcium: The cheese and sour cream add a boost of calcium, essential for bone health.
Comforting and Satisfying: This dish is hearty and filling, making it a perfect meal for cozy nights.

Q&A:

Q: Can I use lean ground beef?
A: Yes, you can use lean ground beef to make the dish lighter. Just be sure to drain any excess fat after cooking.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready, bake it directly from the fridge.

Q: Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a non-dairy milk (like coconut milk or almond milk) for a lighter version.