This creamy beef and shells dish is warm and comforting. With tender pasta shells and flavorful ground beef in a rich cheese sauce, it’s sure to please everyone at the table!
I love how quickly this meal comes together—perfect for busy nights. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less clean-up and more time to relax. Who could say no to that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta Shells: Medium pasta shells are perfect for holding the creamy sauce. If you’re out of shells, other pasta types like cavatappi or rotini can work well too!
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef provides great flavor. For a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. They are leaner and can be equally tasty.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds flavor. You can use any melting cheese like Monterey Jack or even a mix. For a twist, try smoked cheddar for an extra depth of flavor.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream, but it may be less thick.
How Do I Get My Onions and Garlic Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the onions and garlic right sets the stage for flavor in your dish. You want your onions to be soft and translucent while the garlic should be fragrant, not burnt. Here’s how:
- Use medium-high heat for the onions—this caramelizes them quickly.
- Add garlic later to prevent it from burning. Garlic cooks faster than onions, so keep an eye on it!
- Keep stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Ensure My Beef is Juicy and Flavorful?
Brown your beef properly! This enhances the flavor and keeps it juicy. Here’s a tip:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary, allowing the beef to sear and not steam.
- Break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. This helps it cook evenly and makes it more tender.
Enjoy making this creamy beef and shells recipe! It’s simple, quick, and oh-so-delicious!
How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Meat:
- 1 lb (450g) medium pasta shells
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
Veggies & Flavor:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Cheesy Goodness:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Rich Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasoning:
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! With around 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, you’ll have a comforting meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the medium pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, stir in the ground beef. Season it with a pinch of salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, using a spoon to break it apart into smaller pieces.
4. Add Tomatoes:
Once the beef is cooked, add the drained diced tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently to incorporate it into the beef mixture, warming the sauce without boiling it.
6. Cheese Time!
Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until both cheeses melt, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Now, add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
8. Final Touch:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Then, serve the creamy beef and shells hot, topped with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, comforting beef and shell pasta! It’s quick, satisfying, and a sure hit for the whole family!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great, lean alternative that will work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning slightly, as turkey is milder in flavor than beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed for the substitute you choose!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy beef mixture a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove, then add freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
