Description

This Creamy Pasta Shells with Ground Beef recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights, bringing together tender pasta shells, rich tomato sauce, and a cheesy, velvety finish. The sauce coats every bite, making it irresistibly creamy and flavorful. Simple, hearty, and packed with comforting goodness, this dish is perfect for the whole family. Serve it with a side of steamed green veggies or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ Vidalia onion, chopped
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 15 ounces tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces shell pasta, cooked

Preparation Method

Cook the pasta shells according to package directions in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook, crumbling the beef as it browns, until no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the chopped onion and continue cooking until the onion softens.

Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then sprinkle in the flour, stirring until it begins to brown slightly. Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens.

Add the heavy cream and stir to create a smooth, creamy consistency. Return the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, mixing until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated into the dish.

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Tips and Conclusion

Pair with a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.

Serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich, creamy sauce.

Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for extra flavor.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creamy consistency.

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! While shells hold the sauce beautifully, elbow macaroni or penne work just as well.

Can I substitute cheddar cheese? Absolutely! Mozzarella or a mix of Monterey Jack and Parmesan adds a delicious twist.

Is this dish freezer-friendly? Yes! Freeze in individual portions for an easy, comforting meal anytime.

This Creamy Pasta Shells with Ground Beef is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal, combining rich, cheesy flavors with a creamy tomato sauce that hugs every bite. Whether you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing family dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it tonight and enjoy every spoonful of its indulgent goodness!