If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you are going to adore this Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe. It perfectly balances tender pasta shells coated in a rich, cheesy sauce with savory ground beef and a hint of Italian flair. Every bite bursts with flavor, making it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. The creaminess combined with the satisfying texture of the pasta and beef is truly unforgettable, and it’s so easy to make that it might just become your new go-to comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, straightforward ingredients brings this Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe to life. Each item plays an important role, whether it’s building layers of flavor, adding texture, or giving the dish that beautiful creamy finish you’ll crave.
- 12 oz medium pasta shells: These perfectly hold the creamy sauce and beef, ensuring every bite is coated deliciously.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to brown the beef, it adds a subtle fruity richness to the base of the dish.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this meal filling and full of savory depth.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and some textural contrast to the beef.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): For that aromatic, mouthwatering punch that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings classic herb flavors like oregano and basil to brighten the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a gentle smoky warmth to enhance the savory sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A dash of heat for those who love a bit of spice.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the sauce into that perfect creamy consistency.
- 1 cup beef broth: Deepens the umami flavor and contributes to the sauce’s richness.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Provides a subtle tang and lovely color contrast to the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: The key ingredient that makes this sauce decadently smooth and indulgent.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melted to gooey perfection, it adds sharp, cheesy goodness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all those vibrant flavors.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, bright finish and a pop of green color.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells
Start by boiling the pasta shells in salted water until they are perfectly al dente. This step ensures the pasta maintains a slight bite to stand up to the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain and set aside, ready to soak up the rich sauce you’ll create next.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through—about 5 to 6 minutes. After browning, be sure to drain off the excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy, letting that beef flavor shine instead.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
To that perfectly browned beef, add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant. These aromatics build a flavor foundation that really lifts the whole dish.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Flour
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything to combine before adding the flour. Cook the flour with your meat mixture for about a minute—this step is crucial to cook out the raw flour taste and start thickening the sauce.
Step 5: Stir in Broth and Tomato Sauce
Gradually whisk in the beef broth and tomato sauce, making sure to blend thoroughly. Bring this to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, creating the perfect base for the creamy finish.
Step 6: Finish with Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until combined, then mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and silky smooth. This is where the sauce transforms into the luscious, dreamy texture that makes this Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe so irresistible.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Finally, fold the cooked pasta shells gently into the sauce, coating them evenly. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and your dish is ready for serving. Don’t forget to sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like a bit of herbaceous brightness.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
Garnishes
A simple handful of chopped fresh parsley adds such a lovely vibrant contrast to the rich sauce, brightening each bite. You might even try a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese on top for those who appreciate cheesiness to the max.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh green salads, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. The lightness and crispness of these sides balance the creamy texture of the pasta, making the whole meal feel well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special touch, serve the creamy beef and shells in individual oven-safe bowls topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and cheese, then broil until golden and bubbly. It’s a fun way to elevate this homey dish into an impressive presentation for guests or family dinners alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps well and tastes just as delicious the next day—just perfect for an easy lunch or dinner.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. You can also use a microwave, heating in short intervals to avoid drying it out while preserving that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While medium pasta shells are ideal for their ability to hold the sauce, you can substitute with elbow macaroni, penne, or even rotini. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and ensure it’s al dente to avoid mushiness.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter, less rich version. Keep in mind that it might be slightly less creamy but still delicious and comforting.
Can I add vegetables to this Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe?
Definitely! Adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can boost the nutrition and add wonderful flavors. Just cook them alongside the onions to soften before adding the garlic and seasonings.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives if you prefer a leaner meat option. They cook quickly and absorb the sauce flavors nicely, keeping the dish just as satisfying.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes adds a mild heat that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. You can adjust the amount down or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe that makes it a standout comfort food. With its rich, cheesy sauce, satisfying beef, and tender pasta shells, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I hope you give it a try soon—you might just find yourself making it again and again whenever you want a delicious, fuss-free meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Print
Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting American main course featuring tender pasta shells coated in a rich, cheesy beef sauce. This easy stovetop recipe combines browned ground beef, aromatic onions and garlic, flavorful spices, and a creamy blend of tomato sauce, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a hearty and satisfying meal with options to customize for lighter versions or extra vegetables.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later incorporation.
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it for about 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until browned. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning.
- Season and Thicken: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine. Then add the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste and help thicken the sauce.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Gradually whisk in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and flavors to meld.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells into the skillet, stirring well to coat the pasta thoroughly with the creamy beef sauce.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef for variation.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to increase vegetable content and flavor.
