There's something deeply comforting about a dish that brings together the richness of beef, the creaminess of cheese, and the heartiness of pasta shells. This slow cooker cheesy beef and shells recipe is a nod to the classic Midwestern casseroles that have graced our family tables for generations. It's a dish that speaks of Sunday dinners at Grandma's house, where the aroma of a slow-cooked meal filled the air, promising warmth and togetherness. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting here, making it perfect for busy days when you still want to serve something homemade and full of love. This dish is perfect for those who crave a taste of nostalgia and the simplicity of good, honest cooking.

This cheesy beef and shells dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce, and a glass of iced tea or lemonade will round out the meal beautifully. For dessert, consider a slice of apple pie or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to keep the comforting theme going.

Servings: 6

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups uncooked medium pasta shells
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent.

3. Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker.

4. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

5. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours.

6. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked pasta shells.

7. Cover and cook on high for 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

8. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and well combined.

9. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

For a bit of a kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter option. For a veggie boost, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms when you add the onion and garlic. If you have leftover cooked pasta, you can stir it in during the last 15 minutes of cooking instead of using uncooked pasta shells.

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