Creamy Beef And Shells Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Creamy Beef and Shells filling your kitchen. This hearty dish combines tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and a luscious, cheesy sauce that’s guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters.

The first time I made this recipe, it was one of those "clean out the fridge" experiments. What started as a random weeknight meal has now become a family staple, perfect for busy evenings or when we crave something indulgent yet easy to prepare.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Beef and Shells

Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation. This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a total crowd-pleaser, offering everything you could want in a quick and satisfying meal.

Quick and Easy: With a prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those jam-packed weeknights when you need dinner on the table, stat.

Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and pantry staples, you can whip up this meal for a fraction of the cost of takeout.

Family-Friendly: The creamy, cheesy sauce and tender pasta make this dish a hit with kids and adults alike. Add a green salad or steamed veggies on the side, and you've got a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Versatile: Whether you want to swap out ingredients or adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. It's also a fantastic way to sneak in extra vegetables for picky eaters.

From its creamy texture to the irresistible flavors, this recipe has everything to keep your family coming back for seconds.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Creamy Beef and Shells lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish shine.

Pasta Shells: The small, ridged shells are perfect for catching every bit of the creamy sauce. While shells are classic for this dish, feel free to use elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini if that's what you have on hand.

Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and tenderness. Drain any excess grease after cooking to keep the dish from feeling heavy. For a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully too.

Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan creates a rich, tangy sauce. Shred your cheese at home for the smoothest melting; pre-shredded varieties often include anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.

Milk and Cream: The base of the sauce uses a blend of whole milk and heavy cream for a rich yet pourable consistency. You can substitute half-and-half if you prefer a lighter option.

Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of Italian seasoning elevate the dish from simple to spectacular. Adjust the spice levels to suit your family’s tastes.

Special Equipment: A large skillet and a medium-sized saucepan are all you need to create this delicious meal.

How To Make This Creamy Beef and Shells

Making Creamy Beef and Shells is as straightforward as it is satisfying. Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned and cooked through, drain any excess grease and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce In the same skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cheese Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If it’s too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Serve Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce. Add the pasta shells and mix until everything is evenly combined. Let it simmer for a minute or two to meld the flavors. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Creamy Beef and Shells stores beautifully for later enjoyment.

Refrigeration: Store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Freezing: Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips: Warm the dish slowly over low heat, adding a bit of milk or broth to restore the creamy consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Creamy Beef and Shells is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize the dish to your liking:

Vegetable Add-Ins: Toss in some cooked broccoli, peas, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Protein Swaps: Replace the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a new flavor twist.

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.

Lighter Option: Use half-and-half in place of cream, and swap out some of the cheddar for a lower-fat cheese.

Gluten-Free: Substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux.

Let your creativity shine as you experiment with this dish, tailoring it to suit your family’s preferences.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about a dish that’s easy to make, delicious, and loved by everyone at the table. Creamy Beef and Shells is all that and more. From its velvety sauce to its hearty beef and pasta combo, this recipe is a keeper you'll turn to time and time again. Enjoy!

Print