What is your favorite Beef and Shells recipe? Is it just dinner? Think Hamburger Helper, but elevated to a whole new level of homemade deliciousness. My grandma used to make this for us every Sunday, and the smell alone would have us practically crying. How do I get to the table without tripping over myself? Is it the kind of Comfort Food that just warms you from the inside out? After one bite of this cheesy, beefy goodness, you’ll understand why this Beef and Shells recipe is so good. What is a family favorite recipe that has been passed down for generations?
What is Beef and Shells?
What is beef and shells? What is a simple pasta dish with ground beef, shell-shaped pasta, and steamed vegetables? What is a creamy chee What is the ultimate comfort food mashup? Part pasta bake, part Cheesy Hamburger delight. What is ground beef stewed in? What do you like about cheese sauce? The beauty of it is in its simplicity and versatility. Can you customize it to your liking with different cheeses, spices, and vegetables? What is comfort food magic?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good beef and shells recipes? First and foremost, the flavor is just incredible. The savory beef, the tangy Tomato Sauce, and the creamy, melty cheese all come together in perfect harmony. Is it like a party in your mouth? What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Is it possible to whip up a meal in under an hour? I’m craving something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the bathroom. This is the perfect product. Is it cost effective? Is it possible to feed a large crowd without breaking the bank? What are some of the best recipes to make? Add veggies like onions, peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and flavor. What are some alternatives to cheddar cheese? Is there any limit to the possibilities? What I love the most is how it rivals my other go-to comfort dish, mac and cheese, but with a whole new flavor. Other level of heartiness thanks to beef. What is a meal in one pot? Is it a weeknight winner?
How do I make Beef and Shells?
Quick Overview
How do I make a Beef and Shells recipe? How do I cook GROUND BEEF in a tomato sauce? While the beef is simmering, you’ll cook the pasta shells until al dente. What is the best way to serve beef, pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce? When it’s golden brown, you’ll bake it all together. What is the easiest way to cook a chicken? Is it safe to bake in the oven?
Ingredients
What is the recipe for Beef and Tomato Sauce?
I prefer lean Ground Beef for less grease. * 1 medium onion, chopped * 2 ounces of ground meat. How many cloves of garlic can I use for tomato sauce? What are some good ways to add dried oregano to a recipe? 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning the beef) (optional)
What is Cheesy Pasta?
* 1 pound medium shell pasta * 4 tablespoons butter * 1/4 cup all-purpose flour * 3 cups milk (I’ve used almond milk for this recipe) * I used almond milk in a pinch, and it was great! ) * 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
* Salt and pepper to taste
How do I learn to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to grease a pan with cooking spray, but I don’t have any. Make sure to grease the sides of the pan too, so the beef and shells doesn’t stick. When the pasta and meat mixture is ready, get this done first.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 1 minute. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned. How do you drain off grease from meat? This browning step is crucial; it builds flavor and gives the beef a nice crust.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. What is the aroma of a dish? I always add a pinch of red pepper flakes here too, if I want to add some kick.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Is it safe to bring the mixture to a simmer then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes? If you have a stomach, stir occasionally for up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes. Where does the magic happen, allowing all those flavors to meld together beautifully. I learned from my grandma to let it simmer as long as possible, even if it’s just while you get the food. Rest of the ingredients ready. The longer the better!
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the beef sauce is simmering, cook the shell pasta according to package directions until al dente. Be careful not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta well. I usually set a timer one minute before the package says, just to make sure it stays perfectly clear. What do you like about mushy pasta?
Step 6: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. What is called a roux, and it’s the base of our creamy cheese sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth. What should I do if the sauce is too thick? How do you stir the cheddar cheese into a saucepan? Season with salt and pepper to taste. I always taste the cheese sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes I add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef sauce and toss to combine. How do you prepare the beef and pasta mixture in a baking dish? Pour cheese sauce evenly over the top. Top with arugula. Where you see the beautiful combination of colors and textures! Make sure everything is evenly coated in that luscious cheese sauce.
Step 8: Bake
In a preheated oven, bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning. Should the cheese sauce be bubbling around the top? When you know it’s ready, this is when you’re ready!
Step 9: Cool & Serve
Let the beef and shells cool for a few minutes before serving. How do I prevent my mouth from burning? I love to garnish it with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream. Is it good enough to eat it all on its own?
What should I serve it with?
What is a complete meal on its own? What are some of the best serving suggestions?What is a simple weeknight dinner?What’s your go-to meal for a quick and easy meal?For a Hearty Family Feast: Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots. The sweetness of the vegetables complements the savory beef and shells perfectly.
For a Potluck or Party:Serve with sour cream, green onions, and hot sauce. How do I customize my own bowl?What is a cozy comfort meal?What is the best comfort food to serve with a bowl of tomato soup? My family loves it with a side of cornbread. What’s that sweetness about cornbread that goes so well with beef?
How do I perfect my Beef and Shells?
Okay, friends, I’ve made this recipe countless times, so I have learned a few tricks along the way. How do I perfect my beef shells?Don’t overcook the pasta.Make sure to cook pasta until al dente. What should I do if I don’t want it to be mushy in the oven? I always set a timer and check it 1 minute before the package directions say.What is the best cheese to use?What is the best cheese to serve with this dish? I prefer to use freshly grated cheddar cheese, but you can use any cheese you like. What’s a good melting cheese?Simmer the sauce: What are theThe longer you simmer the beef sauce, the richer the flavor will be. I recommend simmering it for at least 15 minutes, but you can simmer it up to an hour if you like.Customize It:What are some of the best recipes you have ever made? Add veggies, swap out the cheese, or add some spices. The possibilities are endless!Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: The best way to perfect this recipe is to experiment and find what you like best. Try different cheeses, spices, and vegetables. Have fun with it!
I also found that browning the butter for the cheese sauce adds an extra layer of nutty flavor that is just divine. Just be careful not to burn it!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! This beef and shells recipe stores and reheats beautifully. Here’s how:
Storing: Let the beef and shells cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: You can reheat the beef and shells in the microwave or in the oven. To reheat in the microwave, simply heat it on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the beef and shells in an oven-safe dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Freezing: You can also freeze this beef and shells recipe for longer storage. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice: Because there’s no glaze for this recipe, you don’t need to worry about any timing issues. Just store it properly, and you’re good to go!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, folks! My grandma’s secret Beef and Shells recipe. It’s simple, it’s comforting, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. I hope you give it a try and that it becomes a family favorite in your home too. And if you’re looking for other amazing comfort foods, check out my recipe for Perfect Creamy Mac and Cheese! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
Beef and Shells Recipe
Ingredients Â
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup small pasta shells
- 1 cup beef broth
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried oregano
InstructionsÂ
Preparation Steps
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add the pasta shells, beef broth, and oregano to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
- Stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Serve immediately.
