Are you looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to whip up and pleases everyone at the table? Look no further! Our creamy beef shells pasta is the ultimate dish that combines tender beef, al dente pasta shells, and a luscious creamy sauce for a delightful experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups medium pasta shells
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipments
- Large saucepan
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Grater
How to Make Creamy Beef Shells Pasta – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until they are just al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain the cooked pasta shells in a colander and set them aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the beef is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until melted and well combined.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta shells to the creamy beef mixture and stir until they are well coated with the sauce. Allow the pasta to sit in the sauce for a minute so that it absorbs some of the flavors. Serve the pasta hot, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your scrumptious creamy beef shells pasta!
How to Serve Creamy Beef Shells Pasta
Serving suggestion: Place the pasta in a large serving bowl and sprinkle with additional cheese if desired. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a rich flavor, you can use a mix of beef and pork ground meat. Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition. If you like it spicy, a pinch of chili flakes can elevate the dish.
Protein-Packed Creamy Beef Shells Pasta
Looking to up your protein intake? Opt for whole wheat pasta which offers more protein than standard pasta. You can also stir in some cooked beans or lentils along with the beef for a protein boost.
Low-Carb Creamy Beef Shells Delight
Craving this creamy delight but watching your carb intake? Substitute the pasta shells with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a delicious low-carb version that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream to restore the creamy consistency.
FAQs
- Can I freeze creamy beef shells pasta?
Yes, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses work well to create a creamy texture.
- How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- What is the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Medium pasta shells are ideal as they capture the sauce well, but penne or rigatoni are good alternatives.
A Delicious Journey – Try Today!
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to make this delightful creamy beef shells pasta yourself and experience the joy of a cozy and satisfying meal. Don’t forget to share your delicious results and insights in the comments below, and spread the love by sharing this recipe with your friends and family!
Creamy Beef Shells Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- medium pasta shells
- heavy cream
- beef broth
- onion
- garlic
- shredded cheese
- salt and pepper
- olive oil
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until they are just al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain the cooked pasta shells in a colander and set them aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add chopped onions and sauté until they are translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
- Once the beef is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until melted and well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta shells to the creamy beef mixture and stir until they are well coated with the sauce. Allow the pasta to sit in the sauce for a minute so that it absorbs some of the flavors. Serve the pasta hot, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley.