Creamy Beef and Shells

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a go-to for anyone who loves the combination of pasta, beef, and a creamy tomato-based sauce. It’s incredibly comforting, cooks quickly, and uses simple pantry staples. The flavors are rich and well-balanced, with just the right amount of creaminess and spice. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep or leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Medium pasta shells
• Ground beef
• Olive oil or butter
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Tomato sauce
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth
• Heavy cream
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Salt and black pepper
• Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and well combined.
7. Add the cooked pasta shells and shredded cheese. Mix until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
8. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the shells.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people. Preparation time is around 10 minutes, and cooking takes about 25 minutes, making it a 35-minute meal from start to finish.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Variety: Use a blend of cheddar and parmesan or try cream cheese for extra richness.
• Ground Meat Options: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for the beef.
• Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk to reduce calories.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through. For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this dish less creamy?

Use less heavy cream or replace half of it with beef broth or milk for a lighter sauce.

Can I use another pasta shape?

Yes, you can use penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni instead of shells.

What type of cheese works best?

Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, but feel free to use a mix of your favorite melting cheeses.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmer a bit longer or add a spoonful of cream cheese or shredded cheese to thicken the sauce.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure all sauces are gluten-free.

What can I serve with creamy beef and shells?

Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Zucchini, peas, or carrots work wonderfully in this dish.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for about 4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze creamy beef and shells?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort meal—quick, hearty, and full of flavor. With its rich, velvety sauce and tender pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for easy leftovers, this dish delivers every time.

Creamy Beef and Shells

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Creamy Beef and Shells is a hearty, comforting pasta dish made with tender pasta shells coated in a rich, cheesy, and creamy beef-tomato sauce. It’s a simple, family-friendly meal that comes together quickly and delivers big flavor every time.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 12 oz medium pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes.
6. Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream until combined and creamy.
7. Add the cooked pasta and shredded cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
8. Simmer for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 1/2 cups)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 690 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg