Rich and Cheesy Pasta Shells with Savory Ground Beef

This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is the ultimate comfort food! The combination of tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and a velvety, cheesy tomato-cream sauce creates a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. The rich, indulgent flavors will remind you of a homemade version of your favorite childhood pasta dish, but with an extra creamy and sophisticated twist.

Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish is incredibly easy to make and comes together in just 30 minutes. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a delicious, stress-free dinner, this creamy, cheesy, beefy pasta will hit the spot every time!

Full Recipe:

  • 8 ounces medium pasta shells
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small sweet onion, diced
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup beef stock
  • 1 (15oz can) marinara sauce
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly grated

Directions:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté for 2 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle in flour, stirring continuously for 1 minute until lightly browned.
  5. Gradually whisk in beef stock, stirring to combine. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, oregano, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer until slightly thickened, about 6-8 minutes.
  6. Stir in cooked pasta and browned beef.
  7. Add heavy cream, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Stir in sour cream, then fold in cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Creamy Beef and Shells: The Ultimate Comfort Food

When it comes to quick, hearty, and flavorful meals, Creamy Beef and Shells is a standout dish. It combines tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy tomato-cream sauce, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home. This dish is inspired by the classic Hamburger Helper but elevates the flavors with fresh ingredients and a velvety texture that is hard to resist.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

One of the reasons Creamy Beef and Shells is so beloved is its balance of textures and flavors. The pasta shells are the perfect shape to hold onto the creamy, beefy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The combination of beef stock, marinara sauce, and dairy ingredients creates a deeply satisfying and comforting taste. The added spices, such as smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and oregano, enhance the depth of the dish, making it taste like a gourmet meal despite its simplicity.

Another advantage of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit dietary preferences or whatever you have available in your pantry. Whether you want to swap the ground beef for ground turkey, use a different type of pasta, or add vegetables, this dish adapts well to customization.

A Meal That Brings Families Together

Creamy Beef and Shells is the type of meal that brings people to the table. It’s nostalgic, reminiscent of classic home-cooked meals, yet refined enough to appeal to modern tastes. Because it is rich, filling, and flavorful, it appeals to both kids and adults, making it a fantastic family-friendly dinner option.

For busy parents, this dish is a lifesaver. It can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for those evenings when you need a meal that is both quick and satisfying. Plus, its one-pan approach reduces cleanup time, making it even more convenient.

The Perfect Balance of Creaminess and Flavor

One of the defining characteristics of this dish is its creamy, luscious sauce. The combination of heavy cream and sour cream gives it a velvety consistency, while freshly grated cheddar cheese adds a sharp, cheesy bite. Unlike some creamy pasta dishes that can feel overly heavy, this one strikes the perfect balance, thanks to the acidity of the marinara sauce, which cuts through the richness.

The use of beef stock enhances the depth of the sauce, providing a savory, umami-packed base that complements the natural flavors of the beef. Adding fresh garlic and onion further intensifies the flavor, making the dish taste like it has been simmering for hours, even though it comes together in just a short time.

How to Customize This Recipe

One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ways you can make it your own:

  • Switch the Protein: While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a leaner option, ground sirloin or extra-lean ground beef can be used.
  • Use a Different Cheese: Cheddar cheese gives this dish its signature sharpness, but you can experiment with mozzarella, Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for added complexity.
  • Add More Vegetables: To boost the nutritional value, consider adding spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or even peas. These ingredients will add texture, color, and freshness to the dish.
  • Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños. A splash of hot sauce can also take the flavor up a notch.
  • Go Gluten-Free: For those who need a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free pasta shells.
  • Lower the Dairy Content: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew milk. Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a tangy twist.

What to Serve with Creamy Beef and Shells

This dish is satisfying on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, here are some great side options:

  • Garlic Bread: The ultimate companion to any pasta dish, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
  • Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the dish.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or roasted asparagus make great vegetable pairings.
  • Roasted Potatoes: If you want an even heartier meal, crispy roasted potatoes add a wonderful contrast in texture.
  • Soup Starter: A warm bowl of tomato soup or minestrone can set the stage for an incredibly comforting meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, Creamy Beef and Shells stores well and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

  • Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of beef stock or cream to maintain the creamy texture.
  • Freeze: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Reheating Tips: If reheating in the microwave, stir every 30 seconds to prevent the sauce from breaking. On the stovetop, heat over low to medium heat, adding a little extra liquid to loosen the sauce.

Why You Should Try This Recipe Today

If you’re looking for a meal that is easy to make, incredibly comforting, and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family, Creamy Beef and Shells should be at the top of your list. Its creamy, cheesy, and beefy goodness is the perfect way to end a long day with a warm and satisfying dish.

This recipe is also a great way to introduce kids to homemade meals that are just as fun and delicious as their favorite takeout dishes. The flavors are familiar, yet the quality of homemade ingredients makes a noticeable difference. Plus, with its quick cooking time, it’s a great option for those nights when you don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is a must-try dish for anyone who loves comfort food with bold, satisfying flavors. Its combination of tender pasta, rich beef, and a velvety cheese sauce makes it an irresistible meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just craving something warm and indulgent, this dish delivers in every way.

With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and deliciously creamy texture, it’s no surprise that this recipe has become a favorite among home cooks. Try it today, and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal made right in your own kitchen!

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