This creamy beef and shells dish is a warm hug in a bowl! It features tender pasta shells mixed with flavorful ground beef in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy nights!
Trust me, when you serve this up, everyone will be asking for seconds. It’s such a comfort food hit! I love topping it with a sprinkle of cheese for an extra cheesy touch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta shells: Medium pasta shells are perfect for capturing the delicious sauce. If you can’t find them, feel free to use another pasta like fusilli or penne. Just make sure it’s a pasta that holds sauce well!
Ground beef: Lean ground beef adds flavor and richness. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or a meat substitute for the same texture.
Onion and garlic: These aromatics enhance the overall flavor. If you’re short on time, onion powder and garlic powder will work too! Personally, I love the fresh impact of real garlic.
Heavy cream: This ingredient makes the dish rich and creamy. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind it will affect the taste.
Cheese: Mozzarella adds a nice stretch and Parmesan gives depth of flavor. For a twist, try Cheddar or Gouda. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free substitute that gives a cheesy flavor!
How Do You Get the Creamiest Texture?
Getting that luscious creamy texture is easy when you follow these steps. The key is to combine the right ingredients and stir gently, so they blend perfectly. Here’s how:
- After cooking the beef and veggies, add the beef broth and let it simmer. This allows flavors to concentrate.
- Stir in the heavy cream over low heat. High heat may cause it to separate, so keep the temperature low and stir well.
- Mix in the cheeses right before serving. This helps them melt into the sauce without clumping. Stir until everything is combined and creamy!
Don’t rush—it’s all about those flavors and textures coming together. Enjoy each step as you make this dish your own!
How to Make Creamy Beef And Shells
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Meat:
- 12 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 pound ground beef
Veggies and Flavoring:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Base Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking, plus around 15 minutes for the sauce to simmer and thicken. It’s a quick and delicious dinner option that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the medium pasta shells and cook them following the package instructions until they are al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the shells and set them aside.
2. Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook and break it apart with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish from being greasy.
3. Add Aromatics:
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onions are soft and fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation!
4. Stir in Seasoning and Tomato Paste:
Now it’s time to add the flavors! Stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), followed by the tomato paste. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes. This helps the tomato paste deepen in flavor.
5. Simmer with Broth:
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to reduce slightly for about 5 minutes. This helps concentrate the flavors and makes the sauce richer.
6. Add Cream:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Combine everything until the sauce is smooth and heated through. This is where the magic of creaminess happens!
7. Combine with Pasta:
Carefully add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. Every shell should be embraced by that luscious sauce!
8. Mix in Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens into a creamy dream.
9. Taste and Season:
Give it a taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add salt and pepper as desired to suit your preference.
10. Serve and Garnish:
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it warm and watch everyone dig in with joy!
Enjoy your warm and comforting creamy beef and shells!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While medium pasta shells are perfect for holding the creamy sauce, you can use other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or even fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
If you’re out of heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter version. You can also use milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. Keep in mind, though, that it will slightly alter the creaminess of the dish.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or using a dash of hot sauce when cooking. You can also experiment with adding chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to bring back creaminess.