This hearty and comforting pasta dish features tender shell pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, it’s a family favorite that comes together in just 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just half an hour, ideal for busy nights.
- Rich and Creamy: A luscious, cheesy sauce that coats every shell.
- Kid-Friendly: A comforting dish the whole family will enjoy.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite cheeses or added veggies.
- One-Pan Option: Cook everything in one skillet for less cleanup.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 2–3 minutes. Add the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Incorporate Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors combine.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and beef broth, mixing until smooth.
- Melt the Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and well incorporated into the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing to coat them thoroughly in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: ~400 kcal
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Include spinach, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrition.
- Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack in place of cheddar.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta shells with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets.
- Herby Flavor: Stir in fresh basil or thyme for extra aroma.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.
- Freezing: Freeze the creamy beef and shells in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta work well as substitutes.
2. Can I replace the heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, though it may be less creamy.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta shells and check that all canned ingredients are gluten-free.
4. What can I substitute for beef broth?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as alternatives.
5. How do I keep the cheese sauce smooth?
Add the cheese gradually over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
6. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes for a leaner dish.
7. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
8. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, creamy beef and shells freeze well. Just ensure they’re stored in an airtight container.
9. What’s the best way to reheat without drying out?
Add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
10. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can make the sauce a day in advance, then cook the pasta and combine when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Creamy beef and shells is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce and savory ground beef. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal your family will love!
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Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
Whip up this easy and delicious Creamy Beef and Shells recipe! A hearty, flavorful dish with tender pasta shells in a rich, savory beef sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 2–3 minutes. Add the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Incorporate Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors combine.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and beef broth, mixing until smooth.
- Melt the Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and well incorporated into the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing to coat them thoroughly in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American