This Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is a delightful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its creamy texture, hearty beef, and tender pasta, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. It’s a one-pot meal that combines protein, carbohydrates, and rich flavors, making it a complete dish that everyone will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This casserole is not just easy to prepare; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. The creamy sauce enveloping the pasta and beef creates a comfort food experience that is hard to resist. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd or have leftovers for the week ahead. The combination of cheese, herbs, and spices elevates the dish, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a creamy casserole. This Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is an homage to classic comfort foods, combining the heartiness of ground beef with the indulgence of a creamy sauce and the satisfying bite of shell pasta. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With a straightforward preparation process and minimal cleanup, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
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)
Preparation:
Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Brown the beef thoroughly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to ensure your casserole isn’t too greasy.
Step 3: Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, and the can of diced tomatoes (including their juices). Stir in the dried basil and oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the shell pasta to the skillet, stirring well to combine everything. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally, ensuring the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom and that it absorbs the creamy sauce. The pasta should be cooked al dente and the sauce thickened.
Step 5: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the creamy mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this casserole warm, straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. Crusty bread or garlic bread on the side is also a great addition for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Tips:
- For added flavor, consider sautéing some bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions and garlic.
- If you want a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you stir in the herbs.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble everything up to Step 4, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, simply bring it to a simmer and continue with the remaining steps.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and they reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
Conclusion
This Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it promises a delightful experience with every bite. The creamy sauce, tender pasta, and savory beef come together in a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try this recipe, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and time again.
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
- Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat can be used as alternatives to ground beef. Adjust the cooking time as necessary, especially for poultry. - What if I don’t have shell pasta?
You can substitute shell pasta with other pasta shapes such as penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the pasta and then refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just bring it to a simmer, add the pasta, and follow the remaining steps. - Is it possible to make this dish lighter?
Yes! You can use lean ground beef or ground turkey, and substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative. Reducing the amount of cheese used will also lighten the dish. - How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce when reheating.
