Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting, one-pan dish that combines tender pasta shells with a rich, cheesy beef sauce. This hearty recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a quick and satisfying meal the whole family will love.

With its creamy texture, flavorful spices, and cheesy goodness, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and ease. Plus, it’s customizable—swap out the pasta or cheese to suit your preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Rich and Creamy: The combination of beef, pasta, and cheese creates a comforting, flavorful meal.

Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 8 oz medium pasta shells

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente.

2. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

2. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Sprinkle the flour over the beef and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

2. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to create a smooth, thickened mixture.

3. Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese

1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.

2. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

1. Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the sauce.

2. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the pasta is heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

Choose the Right Pasta: Medium shells work well, but feel free to use penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer.

Extra Creamy Sauce: Add a splash of milk or more cream if the sauce thickens too much.

Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for varied flavors.

Storage Options

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.

Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting classic that delivers on flavor and simplicity. Its rich, cheesy sauce and hearty ingredients make it a go-to recipe for any night of the week. Serve it with a crisp salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!