This Unstuffed Shells Casserole is all the flavors of stuffed shells without all the work. This can be made ahead of time and even frozen for an easy dinner.
Cook pasta al dente according to package directions.
In a large skillet, brown the beef. Drain. Add the onion and cook for a couple of minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add the marinara sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
In a large bowl, add the cream cheese, ricotta, parmesan cheese, basil, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. mix until combined well. Stir in the cooked pasta shells.
Spray a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray. Spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Layer the pasta shell mixture on top followed with a layer of the remaining meat sauce.
Sprinkle with the mozzarella cheese and cover with foil.
Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake for 40-45 minutes removing the foil for the last 10 minutes of cooking. Sprinkle fresh basil on top for garnish if desired.
Notes
This can be prepared a day ahead of time and baked the next day.Source: idea inspired from Kraft. Shell filling and sauce from me!