Creamy Beef and Shells: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight

Name: Creamy Beef and Shells
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 8 oz medium shell pasta; 8 oz cream cheese, cubed; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

October 12, 2025

Updated:

October 12, 2025

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There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of Creamy Beef and Shells that instantly transports you back to simpler times. Picture this: rich, savory beef mingling with tender pasta shells, all enveloped in a velvety sauce that wraps around your taste buds like a warm hug. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, drawing everyone in; you can practically hear your family’s stomachs grumbling from the other room.

Now, imagine this dish gracing your table on a cozy weeknight or at a gathering with friends. Each bite is an explosion of flavor that invites laughter and storytelling, making it the perfect centerpiece for any meal. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just another day that needs brightening up, Creamy Beef and Shells delivers comfort and joy in every spoonful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy-to-make dish combines comforting flavors with minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy nights
The creamy texture and savory beef create a mouthwatering experience everyone will enjoy
It looks so inviting on the plate, you’ll want to take photos before diving in
Versatile enough for family dinners or casual get-togethers, it’s sure to impress!

One memorable night, I prepared this dish for my family after a long week. Their delighted faces as they dug into their bowls were priceless—especially when my youngest declared it “the best thing ever.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Shell Pasta: Opt for medium shell pasta; their shape perfectly holds the creamy sauce.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds richness and creaminess that’s simply irresistible.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while adding depth to the flavor.
Onion: A finely chopped onion brings out sweetness as it caramelizes during cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the dish with their aromatic qualities; don’t skimp!
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the beef’s flavor profile wonderfully.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan not only adds flavor but also a lovely garnish.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of parsley adds color and freshness to the finished dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Beef and Shells

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil. Once hot, toss in diced onions and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.

Add Ground Beef: Stir in the ground beef into the skillet with onions. Cook until browned through, breaking it apart with a spatula—this should take about 5-7 minutes.

Mingle Those Flavors: Next, add minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the beef mixture, stirring well until aromatic—around 1 minute is usually sufficient.

Create the Cream Sauce: Pour in beef broth while scraping any browned bits off the pan’s bottom. Then mix in cubed cream cheese until fully melted and integrated into a creamy sauce.

Toss It Together!: Drain your pasta once cooked and add it directly into the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Gently stir everything together until each shell is coated beautifully—this should take about 1-2 minutes.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delightful bowl of creamy goodness!

Now that you know how to create this fantastically comforting dish, get ready for smiles all around as you serve up Creamy Beef and Shells!

You Must Know

This creamy beef and shells recipe combines convenience with comfort
The delightful aroma of simmering beef and cheese fills your kitchen, making everyone hungry before dinner even begins
Easy to whip up on busy weeknights, it’s sure to become a family favorite

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef and onions together in a large skillet. While that sizzles, boil the pasta separately until al dente, then mix everything with the creamy sauce for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance flavor and nutrition. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk for creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve a rich flavor, use high-quality beef and freshly grated cheese
Don’t skip the seasoning; it makes all the difference!
Stir constantly when adding cheese to ensure it melts smoothly into your dish

Sharing this dish with friends brought back memories of loud laughter and joyful chaos in my kitchen. Their delight at the creamy goodness made all the cooking worth it.

FAQ

Can I use other pasta shapes instead of shells?

Yes, any pasta shape will work well in this creamy beef and shells recipe.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version of this recipe.

What can I serve with creamy beef and shells?

This dish pairs perfectly with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

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