This hearty casserole combines tender shell pasta, flavorful ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s both rich and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
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)
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Brown the Beef:
Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook and crumble the beef until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Build the Sauce:
Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, diced tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Mix well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Cook the Pasta:
Add the shell pasta directly to the skillet. Stir to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
Cover the skillet and let it cook over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the Cheese:
Once the pasta is fully cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
Season and Serve:
Taste the casserole and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why This Recipe Works
Flavorful Base: Sautéing onion and garlic creates a savory foundation, while the ground beef adds richness and heartiness.
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
Creamy Sauce: The combination of beef broth, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta.
One-Pan Meal: Cooking the pasta directly in the skillet saves time and ensures it absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: For the best melting consistency, shred your cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded varieties.
Substitutions: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate peas, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy casserole with:
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette.
Garlic bread or dinner rolls.
A side of steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 620 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 30g
Why You’ll Love It
This Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is the ultimate one-pan meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Its creamy, cheesy goodness will make it a family favorite in no time!