This Beef & Shells Bake is a hearty, kid-approved classic that has earned the nickname “Reindeer’s Favorite” for its comforting, crowd-pleasing flavors. Packed with tender macaroni shells, savory ground beef, and a double layer of melted cheddar cheese, this dish is the ultimate easy weeknight dinner. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a cozy meal to share, this bubbly casserole is sure to become a household staple.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Classic
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Combines pasta, seasoned beef, and plenty of gooey cheese for a satisfying, warm meal.
- One-Pan Simplicity: Once the beef and pasta are prepped, the oven does the rest of the work, making cleanup a breeze.
- Perfect for Families: Its mild, savory flavor profile and fun pasta shapes make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Large Pasta Shells or Macaroni
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef
- 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese, divided
- 2 cups Marinara or Tomato Sauce
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch glass baking dish lightly with non-stick spray.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until just al dente (usually 1-2 minutes less than the package directions), then drain.
- Brown the Beef: While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine: Stir the tomato sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning into the beef. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, then gently fold in the cooked pasta and 1 cup of the shredded cheese.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Melt & Bubble: Bake for 15–20 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese on top is completely melted and slightly golden.
- Serve: Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
Pro-Tips for Success
- Extra Creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream to the beef mixture before baking for an even richer sauce.
- Hidden Veggies: Finely diced onions, bell peppers, or spinach can be sautéed with the beef to add extra nutrition without changing the flavor profile significantly.
- The Perfect Crust: For a bit of texture, mix some Panko breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle them over the cheese before putting the dish in the oven.