Description

When it comes to irresistible comfort food, these indulgent stuffed casseroles top the list. They're hearty, satisfying, and loaded with flavors that feel like a warm hug in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these are the kind of dishes that disappear fast. My husband can easily devour four in one sitting, and once you try them, you'll see why!

This recipe is a fantastic blend of savory ingredients baked to perfection. The creamy, cheesy filling combined with a golden, slightly crispy top layer creates a texture and flavor explosion. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal prep and delivering maximum satisfaction.

Ingredients

• For the Filling:
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• For the Sauce:
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• For the Topping:
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• For the Casserole Base:
• 8 large shells of pasta or tortillas (depending on your preference)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for greasing

Preparation Method

1. Cook ground beef in a skillet until browned, then add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–5 minutes and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Set aside.

2. In a saucepan, mix tomato sauce and heavy cream until smooth. Add Italian seasoning and sugar if needed, then simmer for 5–7 minutes.

3. Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish. Fill pasta shells or tortillas with the beef mixture and place them seam-side down in the dish.

4. Pour the sauce over the filled items and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispy topping.

6. Let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips and Conclusion

For added variety, consider swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives. You can also mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to boost the flavor and nutritional value. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious meal.
These stuffed casseroles are a hit every time, thanks to their rich, cheesy, and hearty profile. The combination of tender filling, creamy sauce, and melted cheese is undeniably comforting and perfect for any occasion. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, try experimenting with other fillings or sauces for endless variations.

Looking for more crowd-pleasing casseroles? Check out our Chicken Alfredo Bake or Loaded Veggie Lasagna. Don’t forget to share your creations and explore the rest of our recipes for even more culinary inspiration!