Sink into the comforting goodness of Creamy Beef and Shells, a hearty pasta dish that combines tender ground beef with delicate shell pasta, all smothered in a rich, creamy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe brings together savory flavors and satisfying textures in a single pan, making it a perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Rich & Creamy Sauce: Velvety and flavorful, it coats every shell perfectly.
Quick & Easy Prep: Minimal fuss for maximum taste and comfort.
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike for its familiar flavors.
One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Shells
This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a game-changer for anyone juggling a busy schedule.
It’s quick to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
The rich, creamy sauce envelops the tender pasta and savory beef, creating a dish that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor.
Trust me, this is one meal that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
Creating this Creamy Beef and Shells dish is a breeze, thanks to its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
Ground beef: The star of the show, providing rich flavor and protein. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Medium shell pasta: These little shells are perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. Feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand.
Olive oil: A must for sautéing the aromatics, adding a touch of healthy fat and flavor.
Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish. Yellow or white onions work best.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a fragrant kick that elevates the overall taste.
Diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add moisture and acidity, balancing the creaminess. Choose fire-roasted for an extra flavor boost.
Beef broth: This enhances the savory notes of the dish. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. Oregano and basil are key players here.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. For a lighter version, half-and-half works well.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melting cheese adds richness and a delightful cheesy flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda.
Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh finish to the dish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a delicious meal!
How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells
Making Creamy Beef and Shells is as easy as pie, and trust me, it’s just as satisfying!
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced onion.
Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute.
The aroma will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water!
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Next, it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet.
Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, letting it brown for about 5-7 minutes.
Make sure it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
Once done, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now, stir in the can of diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all those flavors to meld together.
This is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the medium shell pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine everything.
Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes.
Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
You want it tender but with a little bite!
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low.
Now, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese.
Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and luscious.
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Finally, serve your Creamy Beef and Shells hot, straight from the skillet.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Dig in and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
Tips for Success
Don’t rush the sautéing process; it builds flavor.
Use a large skillet to prevent overcrowding.
Stir the pasta occasionally to avoid sticking.
For extra creaminess, add more cheese at the end.
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: Essential for cooking everything in one pan. A Dutch oven works too.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and breaking up the beef.
Measuring cups: Handy for measuring liquids like broth and cream.
Colander: Useful for draining pasta if needed.
Variations of Creamy Beef and Shells
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms for a hearty, meatless option.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy twist.
Cheesy Broccoli: Toss in steamed broccoli florets for added nutrition and color.
Italian Sausage: Use ground Italian sausage instead of beef for a flavorful, zesty variation.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free shell pasta to accommodate dietary needs.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Beef and Shells
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of red wine, like Merlot, to enhance the flavors.
Presentation: Serve in shallow bowls, garnished with extra parsley for a pop of color.
FAQs about Creamy Beef and Shells
Can I make Creamy Beef and Shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works well. You can also use evaporated milk for a creamy texture without the extra calories.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions before adding the beef.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of liquid if needed.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy sauce and cheesy flavor make it a hit with kids. You can even let them help with stirring or garnishing for a fun cooking experience!
Final Thoughts
Cooking should be a joyful experience, and this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe embodies that spirit.
It’s not just about the delicious flavors; it’s about gathering around the table with family or friends, sharing stories, and creating memories.
The creamy sauce and tender pasta make every bite a comforting hug.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is a reminder that great meals don’t have to be complicated.
So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the satisfaction of serving a meal that warms the heart and fills the belly!
A creamy and delicious pasta dish featuring ground beef and shell pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground beef
8 ounces medium shell pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the shell pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté them with the onion before adding the beef.
