Creamy Beef Pasta Shells

why make this recipe

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting and hearty dish that perfectly combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the creamy texture of the sauce and the delightful bite of shell pasta. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will make everyone’s mouth water. It’s a family-friendly meal that can be made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you are cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is sure to be a hit!

how to make Creamy Beef and Shells

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces shell pasta
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
2. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the beef broth, heavy cream, and shell pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer covered until pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

how to serve Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells can be served directly from the pot to individual bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for added color and freshness. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.

how to store Creamy Beef and Shells

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. If you plan to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or cream to help loosen the sauce.

tips to make Creamy Beef and Shells

• For added flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes while cooking the beef.
• You can also mix in some vegetables like spinach or peas for a boost of nutrition.
• If you want a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and substitute the heavy cream with a lighter cream or milk.

variation

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils. Simply follow the same cooking directions, making adjustments to the cooking time for your chosen protein.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute shell pasta with any other short pasta shape like fusilli or penne.

Is it possible to make this dish without beef broth?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as an alternative.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Just make sure to store it properly in the fridge or freezer.

Creamy Beef and Shells

A comforting and hearty dish combining ground beef, creamy sauce, and shell pasta that's simple to prepare and perfect for family dinners.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces shell pasta
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Chopped parsley for garnish For serving

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
• Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Cooking

• Stir in the beef broth, heavy cream, and shell pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer covered until pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
• Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving

• Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes while cooking. Mix in veggies like spinach or peas for extra nutrition. For a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken and lighter cream.

Keyword beef pasta, Comfort Food, Creamy Beef and Shells, family dinner, one pot meal