Creamy Beef And Shells Recipe

Craving something cozy, creamy, and utterly delicious? This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta shells with a rich, flavorful beef sauce and a creamy, cheesy finish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal that comes together quickly, yet feels indulgent and hearty. Ready to dive into a bowl of cheesy, creamy pasta goodness? Keep reading for the full recipe!

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What is Creamy Beef and Shells?

Creamy Beef and Shells is a delicious, one-pot pasta dish that combines ground beef with tender pasta shells, all coated in a rich, cheesy, and creamy tomato sauce. The beef is sautéed with onions, garlic, and spices before being mixed with a creamy tomato base made from heavy cream, cheese, and marinara sauce. The pasta shells absorb the flavorful sauce, making every bite packed with flavor. This dish is similar to a beefy mac and cheese or a more indulgent hamburger helper, but with a homemade twist that takes it to the next level.

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Ingredients List for Creamy Beef and Shells

For the Beef and Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef (80-85% lean)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz medium pasta shells
• Water and salt for boiling the pasta

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

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Substitutions and Variations

Creamy Beef and Shells is a versatile dish that you can easily adapt to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few substitution and variation ideas:

• Ground Meat Options: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese Choices: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up with cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even cream cheese for a creamier sauce.
• Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta shells or another short gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Add Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce.
• Make it Spicy: If you love a bit of heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage instead of ground beef.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Season the Beef: Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Add the Tomato Sauce and Broth: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
2. Stir in the Cream: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, making sure the sauce is smooth and creamy. Simmer for 2-3 more minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

1. Melt the Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese, allowing them to melt into the sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce is creamy, thick, and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Combine with the Pasta

1. Add the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy beef sauce until fully coated. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water or extra beef broth to loosen it up.
2. Simmer: Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for a minute or two to absorb all the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
2. Serve: Serve the creamy beef and shells hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

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How to Cook Creamy Beef and Shells: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick summary of the key steps to making the perfect Creamy Beef and Shells:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: Sauté onions, garlic, and ground beef until browned and cooked through.
3. Make the Sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, broth, and cream to create a rich and creamy base.
4. Add the Cheese: Melt cheddar and Parmesan into the sauce for a cheesy, indulgent flavor.
5. Combine with Pasta: Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce and simmer until everything is well combined.
6. Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh herbs and extra cheese, and serve hot.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente so that it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce. The pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits in the sauce.
2. Not Draining Excess Fat: After browning the ground beef, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce.
3. Rushing the Cheese Melting Process: When adding the cheese to the sauce, do so gradually and over low heat to ensure it melts smoothly and evenly without clumping.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

This creamy, cheesy beef and shells dish is a meal on its own, but you can elevate it with a few sides and garnish ideas:

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells

• Serve alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
• Pair with garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Offer a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots for added nutrients.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Beef and Shells

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
• Serve in deep bowls to keep the creamy sauce warm and comforting.

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Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef and sauce a day in advance. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat before adding the cooked pasta.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezing: Creamy dishes can sometimes separate when frozen, but you can still freeze leftovers in a pinch. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on low heat, stirring in a bit more cream or cheese if necessary.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While medium shells are classic, you can use other short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni for this recipe.

Can I make this dish lighter?

For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind, the sauce may be less rich but still delicious.

How do I keep the sauce creamy when reheating?

When reheating, add a splash of water, milk, or cream to loosen the sauce and prevent it from becoming too thick. Stir frequently to keep the sauce smooth.

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Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting, indulgent dish that's perfect for any night of the week. With its tender pasta, flavorful beef, and rich, creamy sauce, this recipe is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a cozy meal to enjoy on a lazy weekend, this easy pasta dish delivers flavor and comfort in every bite. Try it today, and watch it become a family favorite!

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