Cheesy Beef Pasta (Printable Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Meaty Pasta Base

01 - 1 small onion, diced into tiny pieces
02 - 2 cloves garlic, minced fresh
03 - 1 pound (450g) ground beef
04 - 12 ounces (340g) medium pasta shells

→ Sauce Ingredients

05 - 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
06 - 1/2 cup (120ml) broth made from beef
07 - 1 can (10.5 ounces) of condensed mushroom soup
08 - 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, juices included

→ Cheesy Topping

09 - 1 cup (100g) freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
10 - 2 cups (200g) freshly grated cheddar

→ Flavorful Spices

11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
12 - 1 teaspoon Italian-style seasonings
13 - 1/2 teaspoon table salt
14 - 1/2 teaspoon paprika for a hint of smokiness
15 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped to garnish

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Coat a 9x13-inch baking dish lightly with oil so nothing sticks.
02 - Cook your pasta shells in salty boiling water until just tender but still firm. Drain thoroughly and put aside.
03 - In a big skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the onions with the beef until browned and cooked through. Toss in your minced garlic right before finishing to let the smell pop. Get rid of any extra grease.
04 - Mix together the diced tomatoes, mushroom soup, sour cream, and beef broth into the skillet with the cooked meat. Sprinkle in your seasonings—Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it lightly bubble for everything to meld together.
05 - Add the drained pasta to the skillet and give it a good mix so every shell is coated well. Move everything to the prepared baking dish, and spread the cheese blend over the top.
06 - Slide the dish into the oven and let it bake for 20 to 25 minutes. It's ready when the cheese turns melty and golden.
07 - Sprinkle over freshly chopped parsley to brighten it up. Dish it out while warm so you enjoy that gooey cheese pull!

# Additional Tips:

01 - For a spicier kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes
02 - Include some veggies like mushrooms, corn, or peas to make it heartier
03 - Mix in 1/4 cup of cream cheese for an extra smooth sauce