Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

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Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe, a rich and hearty pasta dish that’s packed with flavor. Tender pasta shells are coated in a velvety, creamy tomato-based sauce with savory ground beef, making it a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Deliciously Creamy Beef and Shells

This dish is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness combined with the richness of ground beef. Every bite delivers a luscious, well-seasoned sauce that clings to the pasta shells, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a cozy meal for the whole family, this one-pot pasta dish is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent go-to recipe when you need a filling meal in no time.

Ingredients for Creamy Beef and Shells

To create this rich and flavorful dish, you’ll need a combination of simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients that come together beautifully.

• Pasta Shells – Medium-sized pasta shells work best as they hold the creamy sauce well, creating a perfect bite in every spoonful.
• Ground Beef – Lean ground beef adds a hearty and savory depth of flavor to the dish. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Onion & Garlic – Freshly chopped onion and minced garlic enhance the overall taste, adding a fragrant, savory aroma to the sauce.
• Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes – These give the dish a rich, tangy base while adding texture to the sauce. Fire-roasted or seasoned diced tomatoes work well for extra depth.
• Heavy Cream – The key to achieving a velvety, creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
• Beef Broth – Adds an extra layer of flavor and ensures the sauce has the right consistency.
• Cheddar Cheese – Freshly shredded cheddar melts into the sauce, creating a smooth and cheesy texture that pairs wonderfully with the pasta.
• Italian Seasoning & Paprika – A blend of herbs and spices that enhances the dish with a warm, slightly smoky taste.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for bringing out the flavors of the dish and balancing the richness of the sauce.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional) – Adds a touch of color and freshness to the final dish.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

This creamy pasta dish comes together in just a few easy steps, making it a perfect option for a quick and comforting meal.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a bit of oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and seasonings (Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper). Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir it into the sauce. Finally, add the drained pasta shells and mix everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight!

How Long to Cook Creamy Beef and Shells

The cooking time for this dish is relatively quick, making it an excellent weeknight dinner option. Here’s a breakdown of the key cooking times:

• Pasta Cooking Time – About 8-10 minutes, depending on the type of pasta shells used. Make sure to cook them al dente so they hold their shape when mixed with the sauce.
• Browning the Beef – Around 5-7 minutes, or until no pink remains. Drain excess grease before adding other ingredients.
• Simmering the Sauce – Let the tomato-based sauce simmer for 5 minutes to enhance its depth of flavor.
• Final Cooking with Cream and Cheese – Once you add the cream and cheese, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well and tastes just as delicious when reheated! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

• Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.
• Freezer – For longer storage, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How to Reheat Creamy Beef and Shells

• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef and Shells

To ensure your dish turns out rich, creamy, and full of flavor, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Shred cheddar fresh for the creamiest sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Cook the pasta just until al dente since it will continue to absorb the sauce when mixed.
• Adjust the Consistency – If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
• Try Different Proteins – Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for variations.
• Add Extra Veggies – Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately from the pasta. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and mix in freshly cooked pasta.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While shells work great for holding the sauce, you can substitute penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni.

3. How can I make it spicier?
For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while simmering.

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