Creamy Beef and Shells is a delicious dish that combines pasta, ground beef, and cheese into a hearty meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it is sure to please everyone at the table.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to prepare and doesn’t require many ingredients, making it perfect for busy evenings. It’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup for you. Plus, it’s filling and satisfies both kids and adults with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. With the option to add heavy cream, you can adjust the richness to your liking!
How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning; season with salt and pepper.
- If using, add the heavy cream and mix well.
- Combine the cooked pasta shells with the beef mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it melt (you can cover the skillet for quicker melting).
- Serve warm and enjoy your creamy beef and shells!
Creamy Beef and Shells
A delicious dish that combines pasta, ground beef, and cheese into a hearty meal, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and Italian seasoning; season with salt and pepper.
- If using, add the heavy cream and mix well.
- Combine the cooked pasta shells with the beef mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it melt (you can cover the skillet for quicker melting).
- Serve warm and enjoy your creamy beef and shells!
Notes
For added flavor, consider using seasoned ground beef or adding veggies like bell peppers or spinach. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: N/A
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells
Serve Creamy Beef and Shells warm right from the skillet. It goes well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for an extra touch!
How to Store Creamy Beef and Shells
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best eaten within 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
Tips to Make Creamy Beef and Shells
- Make sure to drain the excess fat after cooking the beef to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Adjust the amount of heavy cream based on how creamy you want the dish.
- For added flavor, try using seasoned ground beef or adding some veggies like bell peppers or spinach.
Variation
You can make a variation of this recipe by using different types of pasta, like penne or fusilli. You could also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the beef and sauce mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply add the cooked pasta shells and cheese.
2. What can I serve with Creamy Beef and Shells?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a more filling meal.
3. Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells?
Yes, you can freeze the dish. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should stay good for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Creamy Beef and Shells is a simple, delicious meal that you can enjoy any day of the week. With easy preparation and ingredients, it’s a family favorite that everyone will love. Give it a try today!
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