Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of beef, cream, and cheddar cheese makes this dish irresistibly creamy and satisfying.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe with your favorite seasonings or vegetables.
- Family-Friendly: Its comforting flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults.
- One-Pan Convenience: Cook everything in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (500 ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups (200 g) shell pasta
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, diced tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add shell pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Different Cheese: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy experience.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
- Low-Fat Version: Use light cream and reduce the amount of cheese to make it lighter.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat before serving. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, but the texture of the pasta may change slightly after freezing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
3. What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat as alternatives.
4. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like penne or macaroni works well.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced chili peppers to the sauce.
6. Is there a dairy-free option?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese or omit it altogether.
7. Can I add other herbs?
Yes, fresh thyme or rosemary can add a wonderful aroma and flavor.
8. What sides go well with this casserole?
A crisp green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish.
9. Can I cook the pasta separately?
Yes, you can cook the pasta separately and add it to the sauce for more control over its texture.
10. How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.
Conclusion
Rich and comforting creamy beef shells casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner that combines ease of preparation with indulgent flavors. Perfectly seasoned, creamy, and cheesy, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite additions, and enjoy the warmth of this hearty dish!
Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this creamy beef shells casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this hearty dish features tender pasta, a creamy beef sauce, and melted cheddar cheese, making it a classic comfort food everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (500 ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups (200 g) shell pasta
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent.
- Add ground beef, cooking until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, diced tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add shell pasta, stirring to combine. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Swap cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a twist.
- To make gluten-free, use gluten-free shell pasta.
- For a lighter option, use light cream and reduce cheese quantity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: American