Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package directions until just al dente. Avoid overcooking because the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook for about 6–8 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Continue cooking until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Add the vegetables
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet.
Cook for approximately 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 4: Build the filling
Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.
Add the Italian seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together.
Step 5: Add the rice and pasta
Remove the skillet from the heat.
Stir in the cooked rice and drained shell pasta until everything is evenly combined.
Fold in the sour cream, making sure it coats the pasta and beef mixture. This gives the casserole a creamy texture without making it overly heavy.
Step 6: Transfer to the baking dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a large casserole or baking dish.
Transfer the beef, rice, pasta, and vegetable mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
Step 7: Add the cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the top.
Make sure the cheese reaches the edges so every serving gets plenty of that golden, melted topping.
Step 8: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for approximately 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.
For a beautifully browned top, switch the oven to broil for the final 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.
Step 9: Rest and serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Spoon generous portions onto plates and serve while hot and cheesy.
This ground beef casserole is especially delicious with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or warm garlic bread. It also makes excellent leftovers—the flavors become even more delicious after they have had time to mingle.
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