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Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a quick and easy pasta dish made with ground beef, a rich tomato-based cream sauce, and tender shell pasta. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights!

Equipment

  • ✔ Large skillet or saucepan
  • ✔ Medium pot (for boiling pasta)
  • ✔ Wooden spoon
  • ✔ Strainer
  • ✔ Measuring cups & spoons

Ingredients

  • For the Pasta & Meat:
  • ✔ 8 oz medium pasta shells
  • ✔ 1 lb ground beef
  • ✔ 1 small onion diced
  • ✔ 2 cloves garlic minced
  • For the Sauce:
  • ✔ 1 ½ cups beef broth
  • ✔ 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
  • ✔ 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ✔ ½ tsp paprika
  • ✔ ½ tsp salt or to taste
  • ✔ ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ✔ 1 cup heavy cream
  • ✔ 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • 1️⃣ Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta shells in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • 2️⃣ Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
  • 3️⃣ Sauté the Onion & Garlic: Add the diced onion and cook until soft (about 2 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  • 4️⃣ Make the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and let simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
  • 5️⃣ Add Cream & Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm up for about 2 minutes, then add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  • 6️⃣ Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and stir until fully coated in the creamy beef sauce. Let simmer for another 2 minutes.
  • 7️⃣ Serve & Enjoy: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired. Serve warm!

Notes

✔ Meat Variations: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
✔ Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
✔ Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
✔ Cheese Options: Try using Parmesan, mozzarella, or gouda for a different cheesy flavor!