Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite comfort foods: creamy beef and shells! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining tender shells with a rich and flavorful creamy sauce that’s just to die for. It’s so quick to whip up, making it the perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or when you just want something cozy and satisfying. Seriously, in about 30 minutes, you can have a luscious dinner that’ll impress your family and friends. Trust me, once you try this creamy beef and shells, it’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious creamy beef and shells dish. I promise, they’re all pretty straightforward!

• 1 pound ground beef: This is the heart of the dish, bringing in all that savory goodness. I like to use lean ground beef, but you can go for whatever you have on hand!
• 8 ounces shell pasta: These cute little shells are perfect for holding onto that creamy sauce. You’ll want to cook them al dente, so they have just the right bite!
• 1 cup cream: This is where the magic happens! The cream makes the sauce luxuriously rich and velvety. You can use heavy cream for a thicker sauce or half-and-half for something a bit lighter.
• 1 cup beef broth: This adds depth and enhances the beefy flavor. I always go for low-sodium broth so I can control the saltiness!
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Oh, cheese! It melts beautifully and gives that comforting cheesy flavor we all crave. Feel free to mix it up with different cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous!
• 1 onion, chopped: This adds a sweet and savory base to our dish. I love using yellow onions for their balanced flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must for that aromatic punch! Don’t skimp on it; it elevates the entire dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: I always say, seasoning is key! Adjust these to your preference as you go along.

Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking, so you can just dive right in and enjoy the process!

How to Prepare Creamy Beef and Shells

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! I’ll guide you through each step so you can whip up this delicious creamy beef and shells dish without a hitch. Trust me, it’s easier than you think!

Step 1: Cook the Shell Pasta

First things first, let’s get that shell pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in the pasta and cook according to the package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes for that perfect al dente texture. You want them to be just firm enough to hold up in that creamy sauce. Once done, drain and set them aside. Don’t forget to save a splash of the pasta water for later; it can help loosen the sauce if needed!

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the ground beef. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. You want it to get a nice golden color, which brings out that delicious flavor. Make sure to drain any excess fat if there’s too much; we want the dish to be creamy, not greasy!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Next, throw in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial because it infuses the beef with all those tasty aromatics. Just imagine that smell filling your kitchen—yum!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to make that dreamy sauce! Pour in the cup of cream and beef broth, stirring everything together until well combined. Let it simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes to thicken up a bit. If you saved that splash of pasta water, now’s a great time to add a little if the sauce seems too thick. You want it creamy, not clumpy!

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese

Once the sauce is ready, it’s time to add in the star of the show—the cooked shell pasta! Gently fold in the pasta along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and everything is beautifully coated in that creamy sauce. At this point, you’ll be wondering why you didn’t make a double batch!

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, it’s time to season! Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference. I love to serve this creamy beef and shells hot right out of the skillet. You can even garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or extra cheese if you’re feeling fancy. Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of my creamy beef and shells. Keep in mind, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients you use.

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 25g

This dish packs a punch with protein, making it quite satisfying! Plus, it’s a comforting option without being too heavy, perfect for a family dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This creamy beef and shells dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce, savory beef, and melted cheese creates a decadent flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish—it’s always a hit at the dinner table!
• One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Leftover Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep or leftovers the next day!

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your creamy beef and shells turn out perfectly every time! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the shell pasta just until al dente. It’ll continue to cook a bit more when mixed with the hot creamy sauce, and you don’t want mushy shells!
• Brown the Beef Well: Take your time browning the ground beef. A good sear adds so much flavor to the dish. Plus, it gives that delicious caramelized taste that makes everything better!
• Use Fresh Garlic and Onion: Fresh ingredients make a huge difference in flavor. If you can, skip the pre-minced garlic and opt for fresh cloves instead. Your taste buds will thank you!
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, just add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. It’s a great trick to keep everything creamy and smooth!
• Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, don’t hesitate to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or even a little parmesan for a unique twist. Cheese is your friend!
• Season Gradually: When adding salt and pepper, do it gradually and taste as you go. This way, you can find that perfect balance of flavors without overdoing it.
• Let it Rest a Minute: After cooking, let the dish sit for a minute before serving. This helps the sauce thicken up a little more, making it even creamier!

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to making the best creamy beef and shells ever! Happy cooking!

Variations on Creamy Beef and Shells

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with this creamy beef and shells recipe! Let me share some of my favorite ideas to keep things fresh and exciting in the kitchen.

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter option, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. It’ll still be deliciously creamy, but with a bit less fat!
• Add Veggies: Sneak in some healthy goodness by adding veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or peas. Just toss them in during the sautéing step to soften them up and add a pop of color!
• Mushroom Medley: For an earthy twist, sauté some sliced mushrooms along with the onions and garlic. They’ll add a lovely depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
• Spice It Up: If you love a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. It’ll give your dish a delightful kick!
• Cheesy Spin: Experiment with different types of cheese! Try mixing in some mozzarella for extra stretchiness or a smoky gouda for a unique flavor profile.
• Italian Twist: Add a touch of Italian flair by mixing in some Italian seasoning, like oregano and basil. You could even toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor!
• One-Pot Veggie Delight: Make it a complete meal by adding diced zucchini and carrots in the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll soften nicely and blend beautifully with the creamy sauce.

These variations not only keep your creamy beef and shells interesting, but they also encourage creativity in the kitchen. Feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this delectable creamy beef and shells dish, and now you’re left with some delicious leftovers? No worries! I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat them to keep that creamy goodness intact.

First, let the dish cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This is super important because you don’t want condensation to form and make your pasta soggy. I usually like to store it in a glass container, but any airtight option will do.

You can keep your creamy beef and shells in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label it with the date, so you don’t forget! If you want to save it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Just grab a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, and it should last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Now, when it comes to reheating, you have a couple of options! If you’re using the microwave, place your serving in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat it in short bursts of about 1-2 minutes, stirring in between, until it’s heated through. This helps it warm evenly without drying out.

If you prefer the stovetop, add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to the skillet to help loosen the sauce a bit. Heat it over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. This method keeps the creaminess intact and revives that delicious texture!

Whichever method you choose, just be careful not to overheat it, as that can lead to a less creamy result. Enjoy those wonderful leftovers, and remember, this creamy beef and shells dish tastes even better the next day!

Creamy Beef and Shells: 30-Minute Comfort Food Delight

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A creamy and flavorful beef and shells pasta dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces shell pasta
• 1 cup cream
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
4. Pour in cream and beef broth; stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta and cheese; mix until cheese melts.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add your favorite herbs.
• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: creamy beef and shells, beef pasta, creamy pasta dish