If there’s one dish that screams comfort and indulgence, it’s creamy beef shells pasta. Bursting with flavors and a silky texture, this recipe combines the richness of beef with the smoothness of creamy sauce, all held together by the tender embrace of pasta shells. Ideal for a weekday dinner or a family gathering, it’s sure to be a hit at any table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups pasta shells
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipments
- Large saucepan
- Stirring spoon
- Colander
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
How to Make Creamy Beef Shells Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Rinsing them under cold water helps prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In your saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This base will give your dish a delightful aromatic start.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the pan with the onions and garlic. Cook until browned, breaking up any large chunks with a spoon. Ensure you cook it evenly for a consistent texture and flavor.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
With the beef browned, add heavy cream, stirring to combine. Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle oregano. Allow the mixture to simmer until it begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the drained pasta shells to the saucepan, stirring well to coat with the creamy beef sauce. Finish with grated Parmesan and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy the scrumptious blend of creamy sauce with hearty beef and pasta!
How to Serve Creamy Beef Shells Pasta
Serve this pasta dish hot with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top. A side of crusty garlic bread and a green salad complement it beautifully. This dish pairs well with a light red wine or a sparkling water with a lemon slice.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For the best creamy beef shells pasta, ensure your pasta shells are cooked al dente—this prevents them from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Use freshly grated Parmesan, as it melts better and is more flavorful than pre-grated options. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the cooking process.
Pumped Up Protein: High Protein Heaven
Looking to amp up your protein intake? Swap the ground beef with a mix of lean ground beef and turkey. Add in a can of drained chickpeas for an extra protein punch that complements the creamy sauce wonderfully.
Low Carb, High Taste: Guilt-Free Creamy Beef Shells Pasta
If you’re cutting carbs but still crave the comfort of a creamy pasta dish, try swapping pasta shells with zucchini noodles. The zucchini offers a similar texture while making the dish lighter and perfect for a low-carb lifestyle.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy consistency as needed.
FAQs
Question: Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta shells? Answer: Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Question: Can I substitute heavy cream with half-and-half? Answer: Absolutely, but expect a slightly thinner sauce.
Question: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe? Answer: Yes, substitute beef with mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian option.
Question: Can I freeze creamy beef shells pasta? Answer: It’s best to freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
Conclusion & Invitation to Join the Creamy Pasta Journey!
This creamy beef shells pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re having a quiet night in or entertaining guests, this dish promises to bring joy to your dining experience. We hope you try it out and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and leave us a comment with your thoughts!
Creamy Beef Shells Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- pasta shells
- heavy cream
- beef broth
- onion
- garlic
- Parmesan cheese
- olive oil
- dried oregano
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. Rinsing them under cold water helps prevent sticking.
- In your saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This base will give your dish a delightful aromatic start.
- Add ground beef to the pan with the onions and garlic. Cook until browned, breaking up any large chunks with a spoon. Ensure you cook it evenly for a consistent texture and flavor.
- With the beef browned, add heavy cream, stirring to combine. Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle oregano. Allow the mixture to simmer until it begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Add the drained pasta shells to the saucepan, stirring well to coat with the creamy beef sauce. Finish with grated Parmesan and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy the scrumptious blend of creamy sauce with hearty beef and pasta!