Ingredients
1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 small onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 ounces pasta (penne or your favorite shape)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Beef Base: In a slow cooker, combine the beef stew meat, diced onion, and minced garlic.
Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, heavy cream, dried basil, and dried oregano. Pour this creamy mixture over the beef, stirring to coat everything evenly.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and full of flavor.
Cook the Pasta: About 30 minutes before serving, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Combine and Season: Stir the cooked pasta into the slow cooker. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well so the pasta is coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce.
Finish Cooking: Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes in the slow cooker to ensure the pasta absorbs the sauce and all the flavors meld beautifully.
Serve: Dish up this creamy pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
A glass of red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon will complement the rich flavors nicely.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back the sauciness.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months, but the pasta may soften slightly after reheating.
Variations
Mushroom Lovers: Add some sautéed mushrooms for extra earthiness.
Veggie Boost: Stir in some fresh spinach or peas at the end for added color and nutrition.
Cheesy Twist: Swap out the Parmesan for shredded mozzarella or Gruyère for a different cheesy profile.
Enjoy this cozy, creamy dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for any night of the week!