Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe: Comfort in Every Spoonful

Comfort food reaches new heights with this mouthwatering creamy beef and shells recipe that promises to satisfy every craving.

Tender ground beef nestles perfectly among pasta shells, creating a harmonious blend of rich flavors.

Cheese melts into a luxurious sauce that coats each shell with velvety goodness.

The combination of hearty meat and soft pasta creates an irresistible dish that screams home-cooked comfort.

Simple ingredients come together effortlessly, making this meal a weeknight champion.

Each forkful delivers a creamy, savory experience that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Cooking Creamy Beef And Shells At Home

Step 1: Boil Pasta Shells

Prepare pasta shells according to package directions until they reach al dente perfection.

Carefully drain the water and set the shells aside, ready for their creamy destiny.

Step 2: Brown Meaty Goodness

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Toss in ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef turns a beautiful golden brown and onions become translucent.

Drain away any excess fat to keep the dish light and delicious.

Step 3: Awaken the Garlic

Sprinkle in minced garlic and let it dance in the pan for about a minute, releasing its aromatic magic and filling the kitchen with an irresistible fragrance.

Step 4: Create Flavor Base

• Beef broth
• Tomato sauce
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Pepper

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it bubble away for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors perfectly.

Step 5: Make Creamy Sauce

Swirl in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes silky smooth and irresistibly creamy.

Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to marry all the flavors.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Gently fold the cooked pasta shells into the luscious sauce, ensuring each shell gets a generous coating of the creamy goodness.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement.

Tips For Ultra Creamy Beef And Shells

• Pat ground beef with paper towels after draining to remove extra grease and prevent a greasy sauce.
• Reduce heat to low when adding cheese to prevent separation and ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
• Slightly undercook shells by 1-2 minutes since they'll continue cooking in the sauce, maintaining perfect al dente texture.
• Temper heavy cream by adding a small amount of hot sauce first to prevent curdling and ensure silky consistency.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for deeper, more complex flavor profile.

Mix-Up Ideas For Creamy Beef And Shells

• Lean Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, lower-fat version of the dish.
• Vegetarian Comfort: Substitute beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a meatless alternative that maintains the creamy texture.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of cheddar cheese to create a dairy-free friendly recipe.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace pasta shells with gluten-free pasta or cauliflower shells to accommodate gluten-sensitive diners while keeping the same rich, creamy flavor profile.

Plating Creamy Beef And Shells

• Fresh Herb Sprinkle: Chop extra parsley or add chopped chives for a bright, fresh flavor boost that cuts through the richness of the creamy beef.
• Cheese Lover's Dream: Top with additional shredded cheddar or sprinkle crumbled blue cheese for an extra cheesy kick that melts beautifully into the hot dish.
• Side Salad Companion: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy, hearty main course and add some refreshing vegetables to your meal.
• Crusty Bread Pairing: Serve alongside warm garlic bread or crusty French bread to soak up the delicious sauce and complete the comfort food experience.

Storing Beef And Shells For Later

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Pack the creamy beef and shells in a freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months, ensuring the lid is tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
• Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of beef broth or milk to restore moisture. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.

FAQs

• Is this recipe spicy?

The dish has a mild flavor with paprika, but it’s not considered a spicy recipe. The seasonings add depth without significant heat.

• Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken work perfectly as substitutes for beef in this recipe. The cooking method remains the same.

• What cheese works best if I don't have cheddar?

Monterey Jack or mild white cheese are excellent alternatives. They’ll provide similar creamy texture and melting properties.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use lean ground beef, reduce cheese quantity, or substitute half the heavy cream with milk to lower fat content while maintaining a creamy consistency.

Creamy Beef And Shells: First Bite Impressions

• Whip Up a Comforting Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe delivers a satisfying one-pot meal that brings everyone together with its rich, creamy texture and hearty flavors.
• Master Quick Weeknight Cooking: Prepare a delicious dinner in just a few simple steps, using basic ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen.
• Customize for Picky Eaters: Easily adapt the dish by adjusting seasonings or cheese types to suit different taste preferences, making it a versatile family favorite.
• Enjoy Restaurant-Quality Comfort at Home: Create a restaurant-worthy pasta dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make, saving money and impressing your dinner guests.

Creamy Beef And Shells Ingredient List

• Ground Beef: A protein-rich ingredient that provides a hearty base for the creamy sauce.
• Pasta Shells: Medium-sized pasta that catches and holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creates a smooth, velvety texture to the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp, melty flavor that enhances the overall creaminess.

• Onion, Garlic: These classic aromatics build a deep, flavorful foundation for the sauce.
• Paprika, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Spices that add depth and balance to the beef and sauce.

• Olive Oil: Helps to sauté the beef and onions and prevent sticking.
• Beef Broth, Tomato Sauce: Create a savory liquid base for the creamy beef mixture.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and herbal note to the finished dish.

Creamy Beef And Shells Recipe

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4.8 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Comfort meets indulgence in this creamy beef and shells pasta, blending rich ground beef with tender pasta shells in a luscious sauce. Cheesy, hearty, and packed with flavor, you’ll savor every satisfying bite of this irresistible one-pot wonder.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 1 pound ground beef (80-85% lean)

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper

Sauce and Cheese Components:

• 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) tomato sauce
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) beef broth
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Pasta:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) medium pasta shells

Cooking Liquid:

• Water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Boil pasta shells in salted water for 8-10 minutes until perfectly tender, then drain and reserve.
2. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sauté ground beef and diced onions until meat browns and onions become translucent, approximately 6-7 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 45-60 seconds, releasing aromatic flavors throughout the pan.
4. Pour beef broth, tomato sauce, and seasonings into the skillet, creating a rich, savory base. Allow mixture to simmer for 5-6 minutes, stirring intermittently to prevent scorching.
5. Incorporate heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, whisking continuously until sauce transforms into a smooth, velvety consistency with no visible cheese lumps.
6. Gently fold cooked pasta shells into the creamy sauce, ensuring each shell is generously coated and heated through for 2-3 minutes.
7. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley across the top for a vibrant, herbaceous finish and serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner, lighter version that’s perfect for health-conscious eaters.
• Use gluten-free pasta shells to make this dish completely gluten-free without compromising the rich, creamy texture.
• For extra nutrition, sneak in finely chopped spinach or zucchini during the beef cooking stage – they’ll blend seamlessly into the sauce.
• Control sodium levels by choosing low-sodium beef broth and reducing added salt, making this dish more heart-friendly and diet-adaptable.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 521 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 450 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg