This creamy beef and shells dish is a comforting delight! It combines tender pasta shells with ground beef and a luscious cheese sauce, making it rich and filling.
I love how easy it is to whip up after a long day. Just cook the beef, add the shells and sauce, and dinner is served! Perfect for cozy family nights! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta Shells: Medium shells are great for holding the creamy sauce. If they’re not available, you can use any short pasta like penne or fusilli.
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for less grease. You can swap it with ground turkey or beef alternatives for a healthier option.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives it a nice richness. If you don’t have cheddar, try Monterey Jack or even cream cheese for a creamier texture!
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic enhance the flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Beef Broth: For added flavor, use beef broth instead of water. Vegetable broth can work too if you prefer a lighter taste.
How Do I Get the Creamiest Sauce for My Pasta?
The secret to a creamy sauce lies in cooking techniques and how you add the cheese. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Cook the beef until it’s well browned for a deeper flavor.
- When adding cheese, do it slowly over low heat. This helps it melt smoothly without clumping.
- Mix in the cream or milk after the meat and veggies are cooked, combining it well before adding the cheese.
- Toss the pasta shells gently in the sauce to ensure every piece is coated evenly.
Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Time Estimate:
This creamy beef and shells recipe takes about 25 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for preparation and roughly 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the medium pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente (cooked but still firm to the bite). Once done, drain the shells and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. If there’s any excess fat after cooking, be sure to drain it off.
4. Create the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth (or water), and Italian seasoning. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Once the sauce has simmered, reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk or cream. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta shells into the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Gently toss them together until the shells are completely coated in the sauce.
7. Season and Serve:
Don’t forget to season your dish with salt and pepper to taste. Once ready, serve the creamy beef and shells warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy this hearty and creamy beef and pasta shells dish, perfect for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to season it well, as it has a milder flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or a mixture of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth as well.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Definitely! While medium shells are perfect for this recipe, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time as needed according to the pasta’s instructions.
