Seashell Casserole
A hearty baked pasta casserole loaded with bacon, celery, onion, tomatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon into small pieces and sauté with chopped celery and onion until bacon browns slightly.
- Drain grease from bacon. Add chopped tomatoes and simmer while pasta is boiling.
- Place half of the cooked seashell pasta, sauce, and chopped cheese in a buttered casserole dish.
- Add the remaining pasta and sauce, ending with the cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F until edges are slightly brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. You can substitute the Longhorn cheese with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. If you want to add more vegetables, diced bell peppers or mushrooms would complement the dish well. This recipe is very versatile, much like the popular Country Noodle Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Seashell Casserole makes a hearty main dish and pairs beautifully with a refreshing Cabbage-Cauliflower Salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving it with crusty bread or a simple green salad to round out the dinner. It’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings as it can serve a crowd easily.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seashell Casserole contains roughly 396 calories, with 9g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 647mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it and cover with foil. Refrigerate overnight and bake it the next day. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze Seashell Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. It’s a great option for meal prep or busy days.
What can I do if I don't have seashell pasta?
If you don’t have seashell pasta, any similar shaped pasta like rotini or fusilli can work just as well. The key is to use a pasta that will hold onto the sauce. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).