Cheesy beef and pasta in tomato sauce

We tried this recipe: https://www.thekitchn.com/beef-and-shells-22959477 Based on our pantry, we made some modifications: first, we omitted the onion and garlic powder. Instead, after browning the minced beef, we added 1 small diced onion, then 2 mins later 2 minced garlic cloves. Second, we added 2 cups unsalted beef broth and a 15 oz can unsalted tomato sauce. Third, we used 8 iz jumbo pasta shells, which added only after the broth and tomato sauce started simmering; then we covered and simmered the shells for 15 mins. Fourth, we halved the whipping cream to only ¼ cup. Finally, for the cheese, we mixed in 4 oz shredded yellow cheddar and then topped with 2 oz as garnish (for a total of 6 oz, down from 8 oz). (Oct. 2020)

Note: We found this dish too creamy. The next time, we may omit the whipping cream altogether.