Creamy Beef And Shells Recipe

Looking for a quick and easy dinner that’s rich, creamy, and hearty? This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe combines tender pasta shells with seasoned ground beef in a velvety, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and the whole family will love its comforting, satisfying flavors. Best of all, this dish comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations that will help you create this delicious, comforting meal!

this Recipe

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What Is Creamy Beef and Shells?

Creamy Beef and Shells is a simple, one-pot pasta dish made with ground beef, shell pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. The pasta shells soak up the flavors of the sauce, making every bite rich and satisfying. It’s similar to a homemade hamburger helper but even more flavorful and made with fresher ingredients. This dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner and can be on the table in under 30 minutes!

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Ingredients List for Creamy Beef and Shells

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz (about 2 cups) medium shell pasta
• Salt (for pasta water)

For the Beef and Sauce:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
• 2 cups beef broth
• ½ cup tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Substitutions and Variations

• Ground Meat Alternatives: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter option. You can also try using plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese provides a creamy texture, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a combination of Parmesan for a slightly sharper taste.
• Pasta Alternatives: If you don’t have shell pasta, you can use other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne.
• Add Veggies: For added nutrition, stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or even peas. Just cook them before adding them to the sauce.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside. You can toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet or pot, heat over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).
2. If needed, drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving a little behind for flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. To the browned beef, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

1. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese, reducing the heat to low. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

1. Once the sauce is creamy and smooth, add the cooked pasta shells back into the skillet.
2. Stir gently to combine, ensuring all the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.
3. Let the dish simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, if desired.
2. Serve hot with extra cheese on top, if you like, and enjoy!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente (firm to the bite). It will continue cooking slightly when combined with the sauce, and you don’t want it to become too soft.
• Not Thickening the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes before adding the cream and cheese. This step ensures the flavors develop and the sauce thickens properly.
• Using Too Much Cheese: While it’s tempting to add a lot of cheese, too much can make the sauce overly thick and sticky. Stick to about 1 cup of cheese for the best consistency.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with simple sides like garlic bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. You can also top it with extra shredded cheese, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or a dash of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Beef and Shells

• Family-Style: Serve the dish directly from the skillet or pot for a cozy, rustic presentation. Place it in the center of the table so everyone can help themselves.
• Individual Bowls: Spoon the creamy beef and shells into individual bowls for a comforting and casual dinner. Top each bowl with a little extra cheese and garnish with parsley for a finished look.
• Cheesy Top: If you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top and broil it in the oven for 2-3 minutes to get a bubbly, golden cheese topping.

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Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can make the beef and sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, cook the pasta, and combine just before serving.
• Freeze for Later: This dish freezes well! Prepare the beef and sauce, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove. Add freshly cooked pasta before serving.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: For some extra texture, top the finished dish with crispy breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes! While shells work great because they hold the creamy sauce well, you can use any short pasta such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni.

2. Can I make this dish without cream?
Yes! If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute the cream with whole milk, half-and-half, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich without the cream.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can stir in cooked vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover creamy beef and shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the shell pasta with a gluten-free pasta variety. Ensure any other ingredients, like the beef broth, are gluten-free as well.

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Conclusion

This Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe is the perfect go-to for busy weeknights when you want something easy, delicious, and comforting. With its rich, cheesy sauce, seasoned beef, and tender pasta shells, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, it’s versatile and easy to customize with your favorite cheeses, veggies, and spices. Give this recipe a try tonight and enjoy a one-pot dinner that’s full of flavor and comfort!

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