Try this recipe!! Rich and Comforting Creamy Beef Shells Casserole
Introduction
Welcome to this delicious and satisfying recipe for Creamy Beef Shells Casserole. This dish is perfect for those cozy family dinners or when you want to impress your guests with a hearty and flavorful meal. The combination of tender beef, creamy sauce, and pasta shells will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
For the beef filling:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the creamy sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the pasta shells:
– 1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
– Water for boiling
– Salt for seasoning
Steps
Follow these steps to make the Creamy Beef Shells Casserole:
Step 1: Prepare the beef filling
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent and the spices are fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
Step 2: Make the creamy sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until it forms a smooth paste, known as a roux.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Season the sauce with salt and pepper to your taste.
Step 3: Cook the pasta shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the jumbo pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce on the bottom. This will prevent the pasta shells from sticking.
Stuff each cooked pasta shell with a spoonful of the beef filling and place them in the baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
Pour the remaining creamy sauce over the stuffed shells, making sure they are well coated.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake and serve
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, if desired.
Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
– Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
– Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef filling for added nutrition.
– Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Gruyere, to change the flavor profile.
Tips
Here are some tips to ensure your Creamy Beef Shells Casserole turns out perfectly:
– Don’t overcook the pasta shells, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
– Make sure to season each component of the dish adequately to enhance the overall flavor.
– Feel free to make this casserole in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
Creamy Beef Shells Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the richness of beef, the creaminess of the sauce, and the comforting texture of pasta shells. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers of this casserole. Simply store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
While jumbo pasta shells work best for this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other types of pasta. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based alternatives like textured vegetable protein (TVP) or lentils. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to enhance the flavor of the vegetarian filling.
