Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

Looking for an easy, one-pot meal that’s rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor? Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food! This dish combines tender pasta shells with a savory, seasoned beef mixture and a velvety, creamy sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Ready to make your family’s new favorite pasta dish? Let’s dive into this delicious and satisfying recipe!

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What Is Creamy Beef and Shells?

Creamy Beef and Shells is a one-pot pasta dish featuring ground beef, pasta shells, and a creamy sauce made with cheese, milk, and a few simple seasonings. It’s similar to a homemade Hamburger Helper but with a richer, more indulgent sauce. The beef provides a hearty base, while the creamy sauce clings to the pasta shells, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner.

Ingredients List for Creamy Beef and Shells

Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make Creamy Beef and Shells. Most of these are pantry staples, so you might already have them on hand!

For the Beef and Shells:

1. Ground Beef – 1 lb of lean ground beef.
2. Medium Pasta Shells – 2 cups of dry medium pasta shells.
3. Onion – 1 small onion, finely diced.
4. Garlic – 3 cloves of garlic, minced.
5. Paprika – 1 teaspoon for a hint of smokiness.
6. Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon for added flavor.
7. Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.

For the Creamy Sauce:

1. Butter – 2 tablespoons for starting the sauce.
2. All-Purpose Flour – 2 tablespoons to thicken the sauce.
3. Beef Broth – 2 cups for a rich, savory base.
4. Heavy Cream – 1 cup for the creamy texture (you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version).
5. Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese for a melty, cheesy sauce.
6. Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and depth.
7. Fresh Parsley – 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley for garnish (optional).

Substitutions and Variations

This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is flexible and can easily be adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Pasta Substitutes: You can use other small pasta shapes like penne, elbow macaroni, or rotini if you don’t have shells.
• Lighter Sauce: To reduce calories, use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. You can also use less cheese or swap some of the cheddar with a lower-fat cheese.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a plant-based meat substitute for a meat-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a little heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Creamy Beef and Shells in a few easy steps. The recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta cooking water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

2. Cook the Beef:

1. Brown the Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-6 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the Onion and Garlic: Stir in the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Season the Beef: Add the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce:

1. Make a Roux: In the same skillet with the beef, push the beef to one side of the pan and melt 2 tablespoons of butter on the other side. Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk to combine, creating a roux. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Add the Broth: Slowly whisk in the beef broth, combining it with the roux to form a smooth sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
3. Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce starts to thicken.

4. Add the Cheese and Pasta:

1. Add the Cheese: Lower the heat to medium and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
2. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen it up.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika if needed.

5. Serve:

1. Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamy beef and shells hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for more cheesy goodness.

How to Cook Creamy Beef and Shells: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick breakdown of the steps for easy reference:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef: Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic.
3. Make the Sauce: Create a roux with butter and flour, add broth and cream, and simmer until thickened.
4. Add Cheese and Pasta: Stir in the cheese, then add the cooked pasta shells, combining everything until creamy and smooth.
5. Serve Hot: Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta until it’s al dente since it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
• Lumpy Sauce: To avoid lumps in your sauce, whisk the flour and butter together thoroughly when making the roux. Also, slowly whisk in the broth to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Burning the Cheese: Lower the heat when adding the cheese to prevent it from burning or curdling. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted.

Serving and Presentation Tips

While Creamy Beef and Shells is a rustic, hearty dish, you can still elevate the presentation with a few simple tips:

• Serve in Bowls: Dish up the pasta in wide, shallow bowls to help keep the heat in and make it easier to eat.
• Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or extra Parmesan over the top to add a pop of color and flavor.
• With Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells

This rich and hearty dish can be served on its own or with a few simple sides:

• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread or buttered toast is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Green Salad: Serve with a light green salad dressed with a vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Pair the pasta with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or green beans for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Beef and Shells

• Family-Style Serving: Serve the creamy beef and shells in a large skillet or dish in the center of the table for a cozy, family-style meal.
• Individual Portions: Serve in individual bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley for a restaurant-style presentation.
• Rustic Style: Serve the dish in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, homey presentation.

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it and stir in the cooked pasta and cheese.
• Reheat Leftovers: If you have leftovers, reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much in the fridge.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare the beef and sauce in advance, then reheat it and add the freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While shells are traditional in this recipe, any small pasta shape like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni works well.

Q: Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Cool the dish completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Q: How do I prevent the cheese from separating in the sauce?
A: Lower the heat when adding the cheese and stir continuously to prevent it from curdling or separating. Avoid boiling the sauce once the cheese is added.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is the perfect combination of tender pasta, hearty ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce. This comforting, one-pot dish is quick to make and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for guests, this recipe is a guaranteed success. Customize it with your favorite cheeses or add extra veggies to make it your own. Enjoy this delicious, creamy pasta dish tonight!

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