This dish is dangerously delicious—once you taste it, self-control goes out the window. It’s a rich, creamy, cheesy pasta bake made with tender shell-shaped pasta, savory ground beef, and a luscious sauce that clings to every curve of the pasta. The top is golden and bubbling, the inside is gooey and comforting, and every bite delivers a punch of flavor that’s hard to resist.
It’s the kind of meal that turns casual dinners into cravings. The beef is seasoned and browned to perfection, the cheese melts into a velvety blanket, and the pasta shells trap all that goodness like little flavor pockets. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging solo, this recipe is pure comfort food—warm, hearty, and unapologetically addictive.
INGREDIENTS:
For the Pasta Bake:
- 250g shell pasta (conchiglie)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 400g ground beef
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- Salt to taste
For Topping:
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add shell pasta and cook until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside. Don’t overcook—the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Season with salt, pepper, chili flakes, paprika, and oregano.
Pour in tomato sauce and broth. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, then stir in cheddar and mozzarella. Season with salt. The sauce should be smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, beef mixture, and cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat every shell.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 5: Bake and Finish
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly browned. For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions & Variations:
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost.
- Use spicy sausage instead of beef for a kick.
- Swap cheddar for gouda or pepper jack for flavor twists.
- Serve with garlic bread and a crisp salad for a complete meal.