This creamy beef and shells pasta is a savory delight that combines tender beef, perfectly cooked shell pasta, and a luxurious cream sauce. The richness of the dish is balanced by the freshness of the parsley garnish, adding a burst of color and flavor.
Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a comforting dinner for guests, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The creamy texture and savory beef make it irresistible, while the Parmesan cheese adds a touch of elegance. It’s simple to prepare but feels indulgent, making it an ideal choice when you want something special without too much fuss.
Full Recipe:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 oz shell pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook shell pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion softens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the sauce.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 510 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Creamy Beef and Shells
Creamy Beef and Shells is a rich, comforting dish that brings together tender pasta shells and savory ground beef in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, offering a satisfying and indulgent meal that is both easy to make and universally loved. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, a cozy family dinner, or when you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked meal.
Creamy Beef and Shells is a classic, one-pot dish that combines the creamy richness of heavy cream and sour cream with the savory flavors of ground beef and marinara sauce. The result is a creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy sauce that is irresistible, and the pasta shells trap all the deliciousness in each bite. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—using pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that your entire family will devour in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy families and hectic weeknights. The convenience of making this in one pot means less cleanup, and the result is always spot on.
- Kid-Approved: This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is a hit with children, making it a perfect meal for picky eaters. With its rich and comforting flavors, even the pickiest eaters are sure to enjoy every bite.
- Comforting and Rich: The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with the savory beef creates a satisfying meal that will warm you up and lift your spirits, making it the perfect comfort food.
- Customizable: While this recipe is delicious as is, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients, like using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or adjusting the seasonings to suit your family’s preferences. You can also make it spicier or milder by adjusting the amount of Italian seasoning or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Complete Meal in One Pot: This dish is a complete meal on its own, containing protein, carbohydrates, and dairy, making it a balanced and satisfying choice for dinner.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Cook the Pasta Just Right: It’s important to cook the pasta shells to just al dente. This ensures that the pasta will continue to absorb the sauce and not become too soft once mixed. Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture, so be sure to watch the timing closely.
- Season the Beef: Ground beef can be a little bland on its own, so make sure to season it well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This will help build the flavor of the sauce and give it depth.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: For the best melt and texture, always use freshly grated cheddar cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can interfere with the sauce’s smoothness.
- Stir in the Dairy Last: Adding the heavy cream and sour cream after the beef and sauce have simmered allows the dairy to blend in smoothly, giving the sauce a rich and velvety texture.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Creamy Beef and Shells is just as delicious the next day as it is fresh. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This dish keeps its creamy texture and flavor even after being stored.
- Freezing: This recipe can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a little milk or water to loosen up the sauce.
- Reheating: Reheat the dish on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency. For microwave reheating, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
Variations and Substitutions
While this recipe is absolutely delicious as is, there are many ways to customize it to fit your dietary needs and preferences:
- Swap the Meat: If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can easily swap it for ground turkey or chicken. Ground sausage also adds a great flavor if you prefer a little more spice.
- Make it Spicy: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. The spiciness will complement the creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly.
- Add Vegetables: This dish is an excellent opportunity to sneak in some extra veggies. You can add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the beef mixture to increase the nutrition and flavor.
- Dairy-Free or Lighter Option: If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Swap out the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free version to keep it in line with your dietary preferences.
Why You Should Make Creamy Beef and Shells
From its simplicity to its mouthwatering flavors, Creamy Beef and Shells is a recipe that anyone can make, no matter their skill level in the kitchen. This dish checks all the boxes—quick, easy, hearty, comforting, and loved by everyone at the table. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to for years to come, and with so many ways to make it your own, you’ll never get bored of this classic dish.
So go ahead, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a comforting bowl of Creamy Beef and Shells tonight!
Conclusion
Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food that is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, this dish is sure to impress. The creamy, cheesy sauce, tender pasta shells, and savory ground beef combine to create a meal that is both indulgent and satisfying.
Its versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious taste make it a favorite in many households. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead meal that can be stored and reheated, making it a perfect choice for meal prep or busy days. If you haven’t tried Creamy Beef and Shells yet, now is the time to give it a go. Your family will thank you, and it will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.