Easy Creamy Beef and Shells for a Family Feast

The aroma of creamy beef and shells wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture tender pasta shells enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce bursting with savory beef flavors; it’s comfort food at its finest. This dish doesn’t just fill your stomach; it fills your heart with joy.

As I stirred the bubbling pot of creamy goodness one evening, my kids raced into the kitchen as if they’d caught a whiff of freshly baked cookies. Their eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning. Creamy beef and shells has become our go-to family meal that brings everyone together after long days.

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends devoured it in seconds. Their compliments were like sweet music to my ears.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Beef Mince: Use lean ground beef for flavor without excess grease; it keeps the dish lighter.
• Pasta Shells: Choose medium-sized shells; they hold onto the sauce perfectly.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness when sautéed; yellow onions work best.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor; don’t skimp on this aromatic delight.
• Beef Broth: Adds depth of flavor; opt for low sodium to control saltiness.
• Heavy Cream: For that luscious creaminess; you can substitute half-and-half if desired.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top gives a melty finish; sharp cheddar works wonders here.
• Spices (Salt, Pepper, Italian Seasoning): Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preference.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Cooking the Beef: Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned while breaking it apart with a spatula—about 6-8 minutes—until no longer pink.

Adding Aromatics: Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the beef. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and fragrant—around 3-4 minutes will do wonders.

Incorporating Pasta Shells: Pour in your uncooked pasta shells along with beef broth. Stir everything so those shells are well-coated before bringing it all to a gentle boil.

Creating Creaminess: Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream along with Italian seasoning. Let it simmer gently until the pasta is tender—this usually takes about 12-15 minutes.

Finishing Touches: Once everything is cooked through, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover briefly until melted—just a couple of minutes should suffice.

Serving Up Joy: Serve hot straight from the skillet so everyone can dig in. Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

This creamy beef and shells recipe will have everyone asking for more. Enjoy each bite as you savor the laughter around your dinner table.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by browning the beef in a skillet, then cook the shells while preparing the creamy sauce. This keeps everything fresh and hot.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.

The first time I made Creamy Beef and Shells, my kids declared it “the best dinner ever.” Their smiles made all those messy dishes worth it.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely. Any pasta shape will work, though shell pasta holds the creamy sauce wonderfully.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap ground beef with lentils or mushrooms, and keep the creamy sauce intact for delicious results.

What can I serve with Creamy Beef and Shells?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this hearty dish to balance flavors.

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Creamy Beef and Shells

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Pin Recipe

A comforting one-pot meal featuring tender pasta shells enveloped in a rich, savory beef sauce that’s sure to please the whole family.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 8 oz medium pasta shells
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning to taste

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 6-8 minutes until no longer pink; drain excess fat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in uncooked pasta shells and beef broth; bring to a gentle boil.
4. Lower heat, mix in heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Simmer until pasta is tender (12-15 minutes).
5. Top with shredded cheese; cover briefly until melted.
6. Serve hot with garlic bread or salad.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating spinach or mushrooms. Substitute ground beef with turkey for a lighter option. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.