*Introduction*
When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to a warm, creamy casserole that’s packed with rich flavors and satisfying ingredients. *Creamy Beef Shells Casserole* is one of those dishes that instantly makes you feel at home. The combination of *tender pasta shells*, *ground beef*, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese makes for a hearty, delicious meal that’s perfect for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or any occasion that calls for comforting food.
This dish is easy to make, filling, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this *creamy beef casserole* will satisfy your cravings and leave everyone coming back for seconds.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to make this *creamy beef shells casserole*, share tips for perfecting the recipe, and explain why it’s the ultimate comfort food that should be added to your regular dinner rotation.
*Why You’ll Love Creamy Beef Shells Casserole*
1. *Rich and Creamy Texture*
– The creamy sauce enveloping the beef and pasta gives this casserole a luxurious, rich texture that melts in your mouth. The combination of *cream cheese*, *sour cream*, and *cheddar cheese* creates the ultimate comfort food sauce that’s velvety and satisfying.
2. *Packed with Flavor*
– With *ground beef*, *onions*, *garlic*, and a variety of seasonings, this casserole is full of savory flavors. The beef is perfectly seasoned and pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce, making every bite a flavorful experience.
3. *Easy to Make*
– This *creamy beef shells casserole* is a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require hours of preparation. It’s a one-pan dish that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending too much time in the kitchen.
4. *Great for Leftovers*
– Like most casseroles, this dish tastes even better the next day! It reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. You can easily store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for later use.
5. *Customizable*
– The beauty of this casserole is that it’s highly customizable. You can add your favorite vegetables, like *spinach*, *mushrooms*, or *bell peppers*, or even swap the beef for *ground turkey* or *chicken* for a lighter version. You can also play with the cheese, adding more variety or using different types of cheese to suit your taste.
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)
Directions:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, diced tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add shell pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through 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.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 620 kcal | Servings: 4 servings