CREAMY BEEF AND SHELLS
Creamy beef and shells is a quick, hearty, and comforting dinner. This easy pasta dish features tender shells, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, cheesy tomato cream sauce the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Beef:
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add Aromatics:
- Stir in onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Make the Sauce:
- Sprinkle flour over beef mixture and stir for 1 minute. Slowly add beef broth and stir until thickened. Add tomato sauce and bring to a simmer.
Add Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in heavy cream, then add both cheeses. Stir until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine with Pasta:
- Add cooked pasta shells to the sauce and stir to coat well.
Serve:
- Garnish with parsley or extra cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Make Ahead:
You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat and stir in freshly cooked pasta. Customizing the Flavor:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or use mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder taste. Serving Suggestions:
Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete, satisfying meal. Allergy-Friendly Options:
Use gluten-free pasta and flour if needed. For dairy-free, use plant-based cream and cheese. Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat and stir in freshly cooked pasta. Customizing the Flavor:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or use mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder taste. Serving Suggestions:
Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete, satisfying meal. Allergy-Friendly Options:
Use gluten-free pasta and flour if needed. For dairy-free, use plant-based cream and cheese. Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.