Welcome to your soon-to-be favorite comfort dish: Creamy Beef and Shells. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta shells enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce with seasoned ground beef. This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights or when you crave a little indulgence. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is a testament to simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz pasta shells
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Begin by preparing the pasta according to package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta shells, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside. This ensures your pasta is perfectly cooked and ready to soak up the creamy sauce flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce. To the skillet, add the beef broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, then bring it to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese. Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. Add the shredded cheddar and Parmesan, stirring constantly until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is creamy.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the shells thoroughly in the creamy beefy goodness. This is where the dish truly comes together, with every shell wrapped in the luscious sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells
Serve this delightful dish in warm bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread for a complete meal experience, and watch your guests return for seconds!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To elevate your Creamy Beef and Shells, consider these simple tips: Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance flavor. Experiment with different types of cheese—Gruyère adds a sophisticated depth. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes goes a long way.
Bulk Up the Protein: High Protein Creamy Beef and Shells
Looking to add a protein punch to your meal? Swap regular pasta shells for red lentil or chickpea shells, increasing your protein intake without compromising the creamy essence. Alternatively, incorporate cooked quinoa into the dish for a wholesome twist that retains the savory charm.
Low Carb Enjoyment: Savvy Low Carb Creamy Beef Delight
For a lighter take, replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, cutting down the carbs but maintaining the rich flavors. This adaptation means reducing the heavy cream slightly and adding a bit more cheese to help the sauce bind to the veggie base, providing a well-rounded meal.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers? No problem! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. This dish does not freeze well due to the cream sauce, so enjoying it fresh is best.
FAQs
- Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare up to Step 4, refrigerate, and finish cooking before serving. - Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe. - Q: How do I avoid the cheese curdling?
A: Keep the heat low when melting the cheese and stir continuously for a smooth sauce. - Q: What other vegetables can I add?
A: Feel free to incorporate mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for additional flavor and nutrients.
The Final Bite: Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Shells
This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a testament to comfort food’s power, combining creamy textures with robust beefy flavors. Whether you embrace the classic approach or try the low-carb or high-protein variants, this dish will undoubtedly become a staple in your home. Enjoy the heartwarming flavors, share it with friends, and let us know how it hits your flavor palate by commenting below. Don’t forget to share the love!
Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- olive oil
- medium onion
- cloves garlic
- beef broth
- Italian seasoning
- smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper
- pasta shells
- heavy cream
- shredded cheddar cheese
- grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef and onions, and cook until the beef is browned and onions are translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet. Pour in beef broth and seasonings. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Add cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Add drained pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat every shell in the creamy sauce.