Creamy Beef And Shells Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Creamy Beef and Shells, with its rich, velvety sauce clinging to perfectly cooked pasta. The hearty combination of savory beef, tender pasta shells, and a cheesy, creamy sauce is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.

this Recipe

This recipe holds a special place in my heart—it was one of the first dinners I made for my family that had everyone asking for seconds. What’s more, it’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for those hectic weeknights when time is short but cravings demand something extraordinary. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Shells

Get ready to meet your new go-to dinner recipe! This Creamy Beef and Shells isn’t just delicious; it’s an absolute lifesaver for busy families and anyone looking for a satisfying, easy meal.

First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a dinner that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked for hours. Perfect for weeknights when time is of the essence.

It’s also budget-friendly. With affordable ingredients like ground beef and pantry staples, this recipe stretches to feed a crowd without stretching your wallet.

Another reason to love it? It’s a family favorite. Kids love the cheesy sauce, adults appreciate the hearty flavors, and picky eaters can’t resist those pasta shells soaked in creamy goodness.

Finally, this dish is endlessly versatile. You can easily swap ingredients to suit your preferences or use up leftovers, making it a practical choice for any weeknight dinner.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to the creamy, savory balance that makes this recipe irresistible.

• Pasta shells: The star of the show! Their curved shape captures every bit of sauce. Medium shells work best here, but you can substitute them with rigatoni, penne, or any short pasta you have on hand.
• Ground beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and texture. Leaner beef works too, but you may want to add a splash of olive oil for richness.
• Tomato sauce: A good-quality canned tomato sauce lays the foundation for the tangy, slightly sweet undertones in the dish.
• Heavy cream: This is what gives the sauce its signature creaminess. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a blend of milk and Greek yogurt.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a bold, tangy note, while Parmesan provides a nutty depth. Be sure to shred your cheese fresh for the best melting and flavor.
• Seasonings: A blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper ensures the dish is perfectly seasoned. For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes!

No special equipment is needed, just a large pot for boiling the pasta and a deep skillet for the sauce.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Making this Creamy Beef and Shells is a breeze, even on the busiest of days. Follow these steps to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

1. Cook the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water.
2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
3. Build the sauce: To the skillet with the beef, stir in the tomato sauce, heavy cream, and reserved pasta water. Sprinkle in the seasonings (Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper) and stir to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Combine the pasta: Gently fold in the cooked pasta shells, ensuring every piece is coated in the luscious sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Serve and enjoy: Serve the creamy beef and shells hot, garnished with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a finishing touch.

This entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.

Storage Options

This Creamy Beef and Shells stores beautifully, making it a great candidate for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce’s creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Protein swaps: Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage can replace the ground beef for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Stir in spinach, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Make it gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for dietary needs.
• Cheese alternatives: Try mozzarella, Gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a fun twist.

Experimentation is the key to keeping this dish fresh and exciting for every occasion!

This Creamy Beef and Shells is bound to become a staple in your kitchen, combining ease, affordability, and unbeatable flavor in one dish. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes. Make it tonight and savor the simple joy of comfort food done right!

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