Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells is one of those classic dishes that feels like a big hug from the inside. If you’ve had a long day and want something comforting, this dish is your answer. It’s easy to make, coming together in just about 30 minutes with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of rich, creamy sauce with perfectly cooked pasta shells and savory ground beef is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a meal your whole family will love, guaranteed. Just the thought of tucking into a bowl of Creamy Beef and Shells can make a hectic evening feel just a bit brighter. So grab your apron, let’s get cooking!

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Why This Recipe Works

Creamy Beef and Shells showcases a brilliant blend of flavors that works perfectly together. The earthiness of the ground beef combines beautifully with the richness of a creamy sauce, making every bite delightful. Using everyday pantry staples keeps this dish accessible and easy, perfect for even the busiest weeknights. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent yet comforting. It’s a timeless recipe that brings warmth and fullness to your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Shells

You’ll love this recipe for a few reasons. First, it’s delicious! The flavor combination here is fantastic, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. The velvety sauce clings to the shells, ensuring every bite is creamy and rich. Not only that but it’s a hit with kids and adults alike, so say goodbye to those mealtime battles. With its cozy texture and classic taste, Creamy Beef and Shells is bound to be a new family favorite.

Ingredients

To make this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces uncooked medium shells pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ½ medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 14-ounce can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup beef broth
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup freshly shredded parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Cook Pasta Until Al Dente

First things first—let’s cook those medium shells pasta! Follow the instructions on the package to cook until they’re al dente. This ensures the pasta holds up nicely when you mix it into the sauce. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. It’s ready to join the party later!

Brown the Ground Beef

Next up, let’s work on the beef. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the lean ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks. This way, you’ll have even chunks throughout. When the beef is nicely browned, use a spoon or a colander to drain most of the fat, keeping it leaner and healthier.

Sauté Onion and Garlic

After that, it’s time to add some flavor! Toss in the diced yellow onion and sauté it in the skillet for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes soft. Then, add the minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Let this cook for about a minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance. This step adds a fantastic aroma to your kitchen!

Combine Tomato Sauce and Seasonings

Now we’ll bring it all together! Pour in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth, then stir to combine. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring now and then. You want everything to heat up and meld together nicely. The rich, savory base will make your mouth water!

Stir in Heavy Cream and Pasta

Once the mixture is heated through, it’s time to get creamy! Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy whipping cream, letting it cook for another 2 minutes. The sauce should be silky and warmed through. Now, add the drained pasta shells to the skillet. Toss gently to coat every shell in that luscious creamy goodness, then stir in the freshly shredded parmesan cheese. This cheese makes it even better!

Garnish and Serve

To finish off your Creamy Beef and Shells, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top and add more parmesan cheese if desired. Serve this delicious dish warm, and watch as everyone digs in—there’s no better sight than a dinner table filled with happy faces!

Serving Suggestions

For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing this Creamy Beef and Shells with a refreshing side salad or some garlic bread. Both options complement the creamy pasta nicely and are easy to prepare!

Tips for Success

1. Use Lean Beef: Choose lean ground beef to help reduce excess fat and keep everything balanced.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the shells al dente helps them hold their shape better in the creamy sauce, avoiding a mushy texture.
3. Fresh Herbs Matter: Don’t skip the fresh parsley for garnish—it adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens the dish.

Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations you can try:

• Add Vegetables: You can sneak in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, mix in sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give it some zest!
• Cheese Lovers: For those who can’t get enough cheese, consider mixing in mozzarella or cheddar for an extra cheesy twist.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers—lucky you—they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When rewarming, do so on the stovetop over medium heat. If you find the sauce has thickened, add a splash of milk or broth to regain that dreamy creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you have around, like macaroni or penne.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu or lentils, and swap the beef broth for vegetable broth.

3. Is this dish freezable?
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container, but keep in mind the texture might change a bit during reheating.

4. How do I make it spicier?
Simply add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while sautéing the garlic and onion!

5. What can I serve with Creamy Beef and Shells?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Creamy Beef and Shells is more than just a quick meal; it’s a cozy treat on a busy night. Easy to prepare yet rich in flavor, this dish brings comfort to your dinner table. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!

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