Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole

Craving that ultimate comfort food hug in a bowl? Look no further! This Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole delivers rich, savory flavors and tender pasta, all enveloped in a dreamy, cheesy sauce. It’s the perfect fuss-free dinner that promises smiles around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole

This delightful Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are compelling reasons it will become a family favorite:

• Ready in Just 30 Minutes: From start to finish, this dish is incredibly quick, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to piles of dirty dishes! Everything cooks in a single large skillet.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with common, affordable ingredients, it’s kind to your wallet.
• Irresistibly Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and melted cheddar creates a luxurious, smooth sauce that coats every shell.
• Deep, Savory Flavor: Lean ground beef, rich beef broth, and Italian seasonings develop a robust and satisfying taste.
• Kid-Approved: The cheesy pasta and familiar beef flavor are a guaranteed hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully, making it excellent for lunches throughout the week.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: Warm, hearty, and satisfying, it truly feels like a cozy embrace on a plate.

Ingredients Needed for Your Creamy Ground Beef and Shells

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this incredible ground beef and shells casserole. Quality ingredients make all the difference!

• 1 lb (450g) Lean Ground Beef: Choose lean beef to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• 8 oz (225g) Medium Pasta Shells, uncooked: Medium shells are perfect for capturing all that delicious sauce.
• 2 cups (480ml) Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the overall saltiness.
• 1 (15 oz / 425g) can Tomato Sauce: A smooth tomato sauce provides a foundational sweetness and acidity.
• 1 cup (240ml) Heavy Cream: This is key to achieving that signature creamy texture.
• 1 1/2 cups (170g) Cheddar Cheese, shredded: Freshly shredded cheddar melts smoother and tastes better than pre-shredded.
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs for classic savory notes.
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder: Adds a pungent, aromatic kick.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Cheesy Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole – A hearty, cheesy bake featuring ground beef and tender cabbage, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.

Essential Equipment for This Casserole

You only need a few basic tools to bring this mouthwatering creamy beef shells dish to life.

• Large Skillet (with lid): A spacious skillet is crucial for browning the beef and simmering all ingredients together. The lid helps the pasta cook evenly.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Essential for browning the beef and stirring the ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions.

Recipe Overview

This ground beef and shells recipe is designed for ease and speed, perfect for any home cook!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Difficulty: Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your irresistibly creamy and cheesy ground beef and shells casserole.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Brown the lean ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until no pink remains, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. This keeps your casserole from being greasy.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce and Pasta

1. Stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and the uncooked pasta shells into the skillet with the browned beef.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring everything is well combined.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Give it a gentle stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Finish with Cream and Cheese

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1. Remove the skillet from the heat.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is beautifully melted and the sauce turns even creamier.
3. Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese.
4. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese on top is perfectly melted and gooey.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish your warm Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole with fresh parsley if desired, for a touch of color and freshness.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

CHECK OUT: Million Dollar Spaghetti – A decadent baked spaghetti dish layered with creamy cheese, rich meat sauce, and more melted cheese.

Tips for Success with Your Ground Beef and Shells

Achieve perfection with your Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole every time with these expert tips:

• Freshly Shredded Cheese: Always shred your own cheddar cheese. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that prevent a truly smooth, creamy melt.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta during simmering. You want it tender but still with a slight bite (al dente) for the best texture in the casserole.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce after the pasta has cooked but before adding cream and cheese. Adjust Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or add a pinch of salt and black pepper as needed.
• Proper Simmering: Ensure the heat is truly low during the simmer to prevent the sauce from burning or the pasta sticking to the bottom.

Variations & Substitutions

Make this versatile Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole your own with these delicious ideas:

• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
• Add Vegetables: Sauté finely diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the ground beef for added nutrients and flavor. Stir in a handful of fresh spinach at the very end until wilted.
• Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based heavy cream alternative and dairy-free shredded cheese. Ensure your beef broth is also dairy-free.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole

This creamy ground beef and shells dish is a meal in itself, but a few simple sides can complete your dinner:

• Crisp Green Salad: A light, fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of that luscious, creamy sauce.
• Steamed Green Beans: Offer a simple side of steamed green beans or broccoli for a touch of vibrant green.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing, non-alcoholic drink option to cleanse the palate.

Health Benefits of this Casserole

While wonderfully comforting, this Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole also offers some notable nutritional benefits:

• Protein-Rich: Ground beef provides a substantial amount of protein essential for muscle repair and satiety.
• Carbohydrates for Energy: The pasta shells offer complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Tomato sauce contributes Vitamin C and antioxidants, while beef offers iron and B vitamins.
• Calcium Boost: Cheddar cheese adds a good source of calcium for strong bones.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers of this Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole are just as delicious, if not more so!

• Refrigerate: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
• Reheat in Microwave: Reheat individual servings in the microwave, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef and Shells

We’re answering your most common questions about making the perfect Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole!

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe! Use a very large pot or divide it into two skillets. The cooking time for the pasta might be slightly longer if you double it in one pan, so watch for tenderness.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Ensure you reduce the heat to low once it boils and cover to simmer. Check the pasta after 10-12 minutes; it should be tender but not overly soft. It will continue to absorb some liquid even after the heat is off.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Absolutely! Elbow macaroni, rotini, or even penne would work well in this casserole. Just ensure they are medium-sized and adjust cooking time according to package directions for tenderness.

What if my sauce is too thick or too thin?

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little extra beef broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce, or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can brown the beef and prepare the sauce up to the point of adding the pasta and cream. Store separately, then combine and cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

If you loved this Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole, you’ll definitely want to try these other fantastic recipes:

• One-Pan Tex-Mex Ground Beef Skillet – A vibrant and easy skillet meal packed with Tex-Mex flavors and savory ground beef.
• Easy One Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta – Indulge in a simple yet luxurious pasta dish that cooks entirely in one pot.
• Cheesy Chicken & Rice Casserole That Fixes Busy Weeknights – A comforting and satisfying cheesy casserole featuring tender chicken and fluffy rice.

Conclusion

This Creamy Ground Beef and Shells Casserole is truly the epitome of satisfying comfort food, effortlessly prepared in one pan. It’s cheesy, savory, and ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect meal for any busy day. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more culinary inspiration.

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