Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe: The Cozy Dinner Everyone Loves

Mastering this creamy beef and shells culinary delight promises a comforting journey through rich, hearty flavors.

Pasta lovers appreciate how tender shells cradle savory ground beef in a luxurious sauce.

Cheese melts into every nook, creating a decadent experience that feels like a warm embrace.

Home cooks can easily craft this one-pot wonder with minimal ingredients and maximum satisfaction.

Each forkful brings together robust meat and silky pasta in perfect harmony.

creamy textures and bold seasoning make this dish a weeknight champion that everyone will request again and again.

You’ll want to dive right into this irresistible meal that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Flavorful Twists For Creamy Beef And Shells

• Spicy Southwest Shells: Replace paprika with chili powder, add diced green chilies, and use pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
• Lighter Turkey Option: Swap ground beef with lean ground turkey, use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, and choose reduced-fat cheddar for a healthier version.
• Mediterranean Herb Shells: Use ground lamb instead of beef, add oregano and mint, substitute tomato sauce with marinara, and sprinkle feta cheese on top.
• Dairy-Free Comfort: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk, use dairy-free cheese alternative, and ensure all seasonings are plant-based for those with lactose intolerance.

Serving Ideas For Creamy Beef And Shells

• Comfort Food Family Feast: Serve this hearty dish with warm garlic bread for soaking up the creamy sauce, creating a delightful meal that brings everyone together around the table.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Top the shells with crushed tortilla chips, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped cilantro for a zesty southwestern-inspired variation that adds crunch and extra flavor.
• Veggie Boost: Mix in roasted bell peppers, spinach, or steamed broccoli to add nutrition and color, transforming the classic recipe into a more balanced one-pan meal.
• Leftover Makeover: Repurpose extra shells into a baked casserole by transferring to a baking dish, sprinkling extra cheese on top, and broiling until golden and bubbly for a completely new dinner experience.

Storage Recommendations For Creamy Beef And Shells

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking for optimal freshness.
• Store the creamy beef and shells in the refrigerator for 3-4 days maximum.
• Cool the dish completely before transferring to storage containers to prevent bacterial growth.
• Use shallow containers to help the food cool faster and more evenly.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works great as alternatives to ground beef, offering similar flavor and texture.

• Is this recipe spicy?

No, it’s mild and flavorful. You can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you want extra heat.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Prepare the beef mixture and pasta separately, then combine just before serving to maintain the best texture and prevent soggy pasta.

• What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce might be slightly less rich and creamy.

Creamy Beef And Shells That Everyone Loves

• Savor Quick Comfort: Enjoy a hearty meal that comes together in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious and satisfying.
• Master Simple Cooking: No advanced culinary skills required – this recipe is straightforward enough for beginners to nail perfectly, making it an excellent confidence-builder in the kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and rich flavor, making it an ideal dish for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
• Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows simple modifications like adding extra vegetables or swapping cheese types to match your taste preferences and nutritional needs.

Ingredients Needed For Creamy Beef And Shells

• Pasta Shells: A classic pasta shape that captures the creamy beef sauce perfectly.
• Ground Beef: The primary protein that provides rich, hearty flavor to the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp and creamy element to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious and smooth sauce texture.

• Onion, Garlic: Provide a foundational depth of flavor to the beef mixture.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: A blend of spices that enhance the overall taste profile.

• Tomato Sauce, Beef Broth: Help create a flavorful base for the creamy sauce.
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking the beef and creating a non-stick surface.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds a touch of color and fresh herb flavor to the finished dish.

How To Prepare Creamy Beef And Shells

Step 1: Boil Pasta Perfectly

Grab a large pot and fill it with water. Sprinkle in some salt and bring the water to a rolling boil.

Slide the pasta shells into the bubbling water and cook them until they’re tender but still have a slight bite. Once done, drain the shells and set them aside.

Step 2: Brown The Beef

Heat up a large skillet with a splash of olive oil. Toss in ground beef and diced onions.

Break up the meat as it cooks, letting it sizzle and turn a rich golden brown. Drain away any extra fat to keep the dish light.

Step 3: Spice It Up

• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Let the spices dance around the meat, releasing their aromatic flavors for a minute or two.

Step 4: Create The Sauce Base

Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth.

Let the mixture simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. The kitchen will start to smell incredible at this point.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Watch as the sauce transforms into a silky, luxurious coating.

Let it bubble softly for a few minutes, creating a rich and smooth texture.

Step 6: Combine And Coat

Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet.

Toss and stir until every single shell is completely covered in the creamy beef sauce. Make sure each bite will be packed with flavor.

Step 7: Serve With Flair

Scoop the beef and shells into warm bowls. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in with excitement.

Expert Tips For Creamy Beef And Shells

• Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a lighter dish.
• Drain pasta water briefly to prevent soggy shells and maintain ideal sauce consistency.
• Shred cheese freshly instead of using pre-packaged for more authentic, richer flavor.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties like monterey jack or pepper jack for unique taste profiles.
• Let the sauce simmer gently to develop deeper, more complex flavors without burning the bottom of the skillet.

Perfect Beef And Shells Recipe

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4.6 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Homemade creamy beef and shells pasta delivers comforting flavors perfect for family dinners. Melted cheese, rich ground beef, and tender pasta shells create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound ground beef

Pasta:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) medium pasta shells

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce and Dairy:

• 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Cook pasta shells until tender yet firm, approximately 8-9 minutes. Carefully drain and reserve.
2. Position a skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Introduce ground beef and diced onions, breaking meat into crumbly fragments while sautéing for 6-7 minutes until deep brown coloration develops.
3. Eliminate excess grease from skillet. Incorporate minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté aromatics for 1-2 minutes, releasing robust fragrance.
4. Pour tomato sauce and beef broth into the skillet. Reduce temperature and allow mixture to gently simmer, thickening for approximately 5-6 minutes.
5. Stream heavy cream into the sauce, whisking continuously. Gradually fold shredded cheddar cheese until sauce transforms into a luxurious, velvety consistency. Continue simmering for 2-3 minutes.
6. Fold cooked pasta shells into the creamy beef sauce, ensuring each shell becomes thoroughly coated with the rich, savory mixture.
7. Transfer to serving dishes, optionally garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Serve piping hot alongside complementary side dishes.

Notes

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter, healthier alternative that still delivers incredible flavor and protein.
• Reduce sodium by using low-sodium beef broth and controlling salt amounts during seasoning, perfect for those watching their salt intake.
• Enhance meal prep by preparing sauce and beef mixture ahead of time, storing separately in refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring quick weeknight dinners.
• Create a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pasta shells and checking that broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free, accommodating dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 520 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 550 mg
• Fat: 34 g
• Saturated Fat: 14 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg