Creamy Beef and Shells - Tasteful Zone

There’s something magical about a dish that combines hearty beef, tender pasta, and a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and that’s exactly what this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe delivers. As someone who loves cooking and sharing meals with family and friends, I can confidently say this dish is a crowd-pleaser. It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and tastes like it came straight from a cozy Italian kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual get-together, Creamy Beef and Shells fits the bill. The rich, savory flavors of ground beef paired with the creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta shells create a harmony that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Ground Beef: The star of the dish, ground beef adds a rich, meaty flavor that forms the base of the recipe. I recommend using an 80/20 blend (80% lean, 20% fat) for the best balance of flavor and juiciness.

Pasta Shells: Medium-sized pasta shells are perfect for this recipe because their shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. They’re also sturdy enough to stand up to the hearty beef mixture.

Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are essential for building depth of flavor. The onion adds a subtle sweetness, while the garlic brings a punch of savory goodness.

Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce provides a tangy, slightly sweet base for the creamy sauce. It balances the richness of the beef and cream, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.

Beef Broth: Beef broth enhances the meaty flavor of the dish and adds moisture to the sauce. It’s the secret ingredient that ties everything together.

Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is what gives this dish its luxurious, creamy texture. It’s the key to making the sauce velvety and indulgent.

Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, Italian seasoning adds a touch of Mediterranean flair to the dish.

Cheese: A combination of shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese adds richness and a delightful cheesy finish. The cheddar melts beautifully, while the Parmesan adds a nutty, salty kick.

Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the beef and aromatics, olive oil adds a subtle fruity note and prevents sticking.

Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are crucial for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.

Ingredients List

1 pound ground beef
2 cups medium pasta shells
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
2 cups beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta shells according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain and set them aside. This ensures they’re perfectly tender and ready to soak up the creamy sauce later.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. Break it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once done, remove any excess grease.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss them in the creamy beef sauce until everything is well coated. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Creamy Beef and Shells hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

Tips for Making This Recipe

Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect how smoothly it melts. For the creamiest sauce, grate your own cheddar and Parmesan.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the shells just until al dente, as they’ll continue to soften slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Make It Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Add Veggies: For a healthier twist, stir in some spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers when sautéing the onions.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells work great, you can substitute them with elbow macaroni, penne, or any other short pasta shape.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your beef broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, Creamy Beef and Shells freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but also works well with lighter sides.

Enjoy making and savoring this delicious Creamy Beef and Shells recipe—it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!