Creamy Beef and Shells

What is my go-to comfort food? Creamy Beef and Shells. What is a warm hug on the plate? Think of it as the grown-up, way more flavorful cousin of mac and cheese, but with Ground Beef? Add a hearty, satisfying element. My grandma used to make something similar, and this recipe is my attempt to recreate that nostalgic, nostalgic. Is it easy to throw together a delicious meal on the weekend? Is it true that we are sleeping on a weeknight?

What is Creamy Beef and Shells?

Creamy Beef and Shells is essentially a pasta casserole where tender shell pasta are tossed with melted butter. In a creamy sauce, Ground Beef is cooked to perfection. Is it a one-pot wonder? ) that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or just enjoying supper on your own. Think of it as a deconstructed hamburger helper, but elevated with real ingredients and homemade. The name pretty much says it all, doesn’t it? Creamy, beefy and loaded with shell pasta. What is not to love?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons why this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a winner. First and foremost, the flavor is just incredible. The savory beef, the creamy sauce, the perfectly cooked pasta… it’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. What I love most is that it’s so simple to make! Seriously, even if you’re a beginner cook, you can totally nail this recipe. It requires minimal effort and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. It’s also incredibly cost-efficient, which is always a plus. Ground Beef is a budget-friendly protein, and pasta is always a great way to stretch a meal. And let’s not forget the versatility! You can easily customize this recipe to your liking. Add some veggies, swap out the cheese, or use a different type of pasta – the possibilities are endless! This recipe kind of reminds me of my other favorite, a creamy tomato pasta bake but it’s definitely more rich and satisfying. But, trust me, once you try this Creamy Beef and Shells, it’ll become a staple in your household. My family requests it at least once a month!

How do I make Creamy Beef and Shells?

Quick Overview

How do I make Creamy Beef and Shells? I’ll start by browning the Ground Beef with some aromatics, then cook the pasta right in the same way. I like to cook a lot of pasta. What’s the best part? What is the best way to do something in under an hour? What is special about this method is that it minimizes dishes (always a win! ) and allows the pasta to absorb all the flavors from the beef and sauce.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish: What is the best way
* 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for flavor)
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 4 cups beef broth
* 1 pound small shell pasta
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)

Optional Toppings
* Fresh parsley, chopped
* Grated Parmesan cheese

How do I follow step

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown GROUND BEEF over medium-high heat. What is the best way to break up a cooked chicken with the help of your spoon? I always do this, even if the beef seems lean. It just makes the final dish taste better.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook until onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. You want to make sure to cook the garlic long enough for it to get fragrant, but be careful not to overcook it.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Then, add diced tomatoes (undrained) and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the shell pasta to the boiling mixture. Stir well. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through. How does a liquid pass through the skin and absorbs most of the liquid? Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream and Cheese

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes. When cheese is melted, the sauce is smooth and creamy. What is the magic of cream and cheese?

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Creamy Beef and Shells immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan. If you like cheese, eat it What is the hardest part – waiting to dig in!

What should I serve it with?

Creamy Beef and Shells is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but it’s also great served with Ice Cream. What are some good side dishes?

For a Simple Side:What is a green salad with olive oil? It adds a refreshing contrast that balances the flavors beautifully.

For a Heartier Meal:Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables are great options for adding some extra nutrients and fiber. I love serving this with roasted asparagus. If you like it, what are some good ways to serve it?

For a Comfort Food Feast:If you’re really craving comfort food, pair it with some Crusty Bread for soaking up all that goodness. What is the best sauce What are some good side dishes to serve with garlic bread?

My family loves it with just a side salad. What is the star of the show Creamy Beef and Shells?

How do I make Creamy Beef and Shells?

What are some ways to take Creamy Beef and Shells to the next level? What are some tips for perfecting this dish?

Beef Quality:Use good quality ground beef. I prefer 80/20 because it has the best flavor, but you can use leaner beef if you prefer. Just be sure to drain off any excess grease.

Cheese Choice:Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses! What are some good combinations of cheddar, Colby, and Monterey Jack? For a sharper flavor, try adding some Gruyere or Parmesan cheese.

Spice It Up:If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to the pot when you add the Italian sausage. What are some good ways to add hot sauce to a dish?

Veggie Boost: Sneak in some extra veggies by adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the pot when you cook the onion and garlic. My kids never even notice!

Pasta Perfection: Be careful not to overcook the pasta. You want it to be cooked through but still slightly firm to the bite. If you overcook it, it will become mushy and the dish won’t be as appealing. I learned this the hard way after a few batches of mushy pasta!

Creamy Consistency: If you want an extra creamy sauce, try adding a tablespoon of cream cheese along with the heavy cream and shredded cheese. It will make the sauce even richer and more decadent.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Creamy Beef and Shells is even better the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the Creamy Beef and Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is my preferred method, as it keeps the dish fresh and flavorful.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Creamy Beef and Shells. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat, thaw the Creamy Beef and Shells in the refrigerator overnight. Then, transfer it to a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from drying out.

Glaze Timing Advice: Since this recipe doesn’t have a glaze, this isn’t relevant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free shell pasta and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free. I’ve tried it with brown rice pasta and it works beautifully, though the texture is slightly different.

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can! Ground turkey or chicken would be great substitutes for ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. I’ve used ground Italian sausage before, and it adds a fantastic flavor.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like. Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would all be great additions. I usually sauté them with the onion and garlic.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the ground beef and cook the onion and garlic in a skillet. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients (except for the heavy cream and cheese). Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir in the heavy cream and cheese just before serving.

How can I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot when you add the Italian seasoning. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to the finished dish, or serve it with a side of jalapeños.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my recipe for Creamy Beef and Shells! It’s a dish that’s near and dear to my heart, and I hope you love it as much as my family does. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. What’s not to love? If you’re looking for more comforting pasta dishes, be sure to check out my other recipes. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your Creamy Beef and Shells turns out! Happy cooking!