Easy Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for Dinner

The aroma of a bubbling pot filled with creamy beef and shells wafts through the kitchen, promising comfort in every bite. Imagine sinking your fork into tender pasta enveloped in a rich sauce that whispers sweet nothings to your taste buds. This creamy beef and shells recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen.

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Every time I make this dish, it takes me back to those chaotic weeknight dinners with my family, where laughter mingled with the clanking of forks on plates. Perfect for busy evenings or cozy gatherings, this recipe wraps you in warmth like a favorite sweater. Get ready for a flavor adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds!

I remember the first time I served this at a family gathering; everyone raved about how delicious it was!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Shell Pasta: Use medium-sized shells as they hold sauce perfectly, creating delightful bites.
• Heavy Cream: Essential for achieving that luxurious creaminess; don’t skimp here!
• Beef Broth: Adds depth of flavor; homemade is best but store-bought works well too.
• Onion: Finely chopped onions give the dish sweetness; sauté until translucent.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor; add it right after the onions.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully into the sauce; choose your favorite.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning bring all the flavors together.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot and adding salt. Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente before draining.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some oil and toss in chopped onions. Sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant.

Add Ground Beef: Crumble ground beef into the skillet with onions. Cook until browned while breaking it up with a spatula—no one likes big chunks!

Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic once the beef is nearly cooked through. Sauté for another minute until aromatic but be careful not to burn it!

Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and beef broth into the skillet with meat mixture. Stir well while bringing everything together into a luscious sauce.

Melt in Cheese: Add shredded cheddar cheese gradually while stirring until melted completely into that heavenly creamy goodness—pure bliss!

Enjoy this journey of flavors as you savor each bite of your creamy beef and shells masterpiece! Your family will thank you later—probably with empty plates!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef in a large pot, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence ensures everything is ready simultaneously, saving time and keeping flavors fresh.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish with vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses to enhance the creaminess and flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Sharing this dish with friends one chilly evening led to unexpected laughter when someone declared it “a symphony of comfort.” Their joy reminded me how food brings people together.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well and provides a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply swap regular pasta for gluten-free shells or any gluten-free pasta you enjoy.

What can I serve alongside creamy beef and shells?

A simple side salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully, enhancing your meal experience.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

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• Author: Emma Taylor
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy beef and shells is a delightful one-pot meal that combines tender pasta with a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish promises comfort and satisfaction in every bite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups medium shell pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add shell pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat oil and add chopped onions. Sauté until translucent.
3. Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet with onions. Cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces.
4. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
5. Create Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and beef broth, stirring well to combine into a creamy sauce.
6. Melt Cheese: Gradually mix in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: One-pot cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 80mg