Description

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta shells with a rich, velvety beef sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious that comes together quickly. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s a guaranteed family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using basic ingredients, it delivers complex flavors that taste like they’ve been simmering for hours. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to prepare this comforting classic.

Ingredients

• Pasta:
• 8 ounces (225g) medium pasta shells
• Beef Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can (15 ounces/425g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
• Creamy Sauce:
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional Garnish:
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation Method

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.

Prepare the Beef Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Mix in the tomato paste, stirring well to coat the beef and onion mixture. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, mixing until fully incorporated. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Combine with Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta shells to the creamy beef sauce, tossing gently to coat every shell with the rich, savory mixture. Let it heat through for a minute or two before serving.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a slice of crusty garlic bread. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce.
Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender pasta, flavorful beef, and rich creamy sauce is simply irresistible. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to serve for guests.

If you loved this recipe, don’t miss our other comforting dishes like Creamy Chicken Alfredo or Cheesy Baked Ziti. Share this recipe with your friends and explore more delicious ideas on our website to keep your kitchen full of exciting flavors!