Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, enveloping you in its creamy goodness while whispering sweet nothings to your taste buds. Imagine sinking your fork into tender beef shells filled with a savory, velvety sauce that dances with layers of flavor—each bite is a delightful explosion that invites you to come back for more.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole
- How to Make Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What ingredients do I need for Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole?
- How long does it take to prepare Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole?
- Can I customize Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole?
- How should I store leftovers of Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole?
- Conclusion for Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Growing up, my family had this magical dish that always made an appearance during our cozy Sunday dinners. The aroma wafting from the kitchen would pull us in like moths to a flame, and there was never a single leftover. This creamy beef casserole has become my secret weapon for gatherings, potlucks, or just those days when I need some comfort food to wrap around me like a soft blanket.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.
- Its rich and creamy texture will have you dreaming about second helpings.
- The vibrant colors create an enticing visual appeal on your dinner table.
- With its versatility, you can easily customize the filling or serve it alongside your favorite sides.
Ingredients for Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Large Pasta Shells: These hold the filling beautifully; choose larger shells for maximum creaminess.
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for richness without excess grease.
- Onion: Sautéed onions add depth of flavor; opt for yellow or white onions for the best results.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the overall taste; chop or mince it finely for even distribution.
- Cream Cheese: This gives the filling its luscious texture; let it soften slightly before mixing in.
- Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and moisture; consider using Greek yogurt as a healthy alternative.
- Shredded Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and cheddar provides a gooey, delicious topping.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding robust flavor to the sauce.
- Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme brings everything together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add your pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain them carefully and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions until they become translucent. Add minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Mixture
Lower the heat and stir in softened cream cheese until melted. Then add sour cream and half of your shredded cheese along with dried Italian herbs. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Fill the Shells
Carefully spoon your creamy beef mixture into each pasta shell. Don’t worry if some go rogue; they’ll still taste amazing once baked!
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of your beef broth at the bottom of a greased baking dish. Arrange filled shells on top and pour remaining broth over them. Sprinkle with leftover shredded cheese.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover your dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional five minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
Transfer to plates and serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for that extra touch! Enjoy every comforting bite of this creamy masterpiece that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole, start by browning the ground beef in a skillet while boiling water for the pasta. This way, you maximize efficiency and flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in turkey or lamb for the beef if you want a different taste. Add some spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients, or sprinkle cheese on top before baking for that ooey-gooey goodness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it stays creamy and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your beef brown well for maximum flavor; avoid crowding the pan.
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness when baking.
- Don’t skip letting the casserole rest before serving; it helps flavors meld beautifully.
I once made this Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole for a potluck, and my friends devoured it! The laughter and compliments were worth every minute spent cooking.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole?
To make this delicious casserole, gather the following ingredients: jumbo pasta shells, ground beef, cream cheese, sour cream, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and beef broth. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. This combination creates a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
How long does it take to prepare Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole?
Preparation time for this casserole is about 20 minutes. Cooking the pasta takes another 10-15 minutes. Once you assemble the dish, bake it for approximately 25-30 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden on top. In total, you can expect to spend around an hour from start to finish for this satisfying meal.
Can I customize Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole?
Absolutely! You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of ground meat such as turkey or lamb. Consider incorporating spices like paprika or chili powder for a kick of heat. Additionally, you could substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version while still keeping that creamy texture.
How should I store leftovers of Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole?
To store leftovers of this casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual portions. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy another comforting meal.
Conclusion for Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole:
Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is a delightful dish that combines hearty ingredients into a creamy masterpiece. With simple preparations and customizable options, it caters to various tastes while ensuring satisfaction at the dinner table. Remember to adjust cooking times based on your oven’s characteristics if needed. This casserole not only warms your heart but also brings joy to your loved ones during mealtime gatherings. Enjoy every bite!
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Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is a cozy dish perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings. Tender pasta shells are generously stuffed with a savory mixture of lean ground beef, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs, then baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make casserole combines rich flavors that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Quick to prepare and delightful to serve, it’s a meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort.
Ingredients
- 12 large pasta shells
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella and cheddar blend)
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil water in a large pot; cook pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, sauté diced onions until translucent. Add minced garlic and ground beef; cook until browned.
- Lower the heat, stir in cream cheese until melted. Mix in sour cream, half the shredded cheese, and Italian herbs.
- Stuff each pasta shell with the creamy beef mixture.
- In a greased baking dish, pour half of the beef broth, arrange filled shells on top, and cover with remaining broth and cheese.
- Cover with foil; bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
