Discover the Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a Cozy Dinner

Gather your family around the table for a delightful dish that’s sure to become a new favorite – Creamy Beef and Shells. This comforting pasta recipe combines tender ground beef, a rich and creamy sauce, and al dente shell pasta for a satisfying and flavor-packed meal. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for your next potluck, Creamy Beef and Shells delivers on both taste and convenience.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Creamy Beef and Shells

To make this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and craveable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pasta Shells: Medium-sized pasta shells are the perfect vehicle for this creamy beef sauce. Their nooks and crannies hold onto the flavors beautifully.
• Ground Beef: Choose a lean ground beef variety to keep the dish from feeling too heavy.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic vegetables add depth and savory notes to the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary lend an Italian flair.
• Flour: All-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce and create a luscious, creamy texture.
• Beef Broth and Tomato Sauce: These liquids form the base of the sauce, providing richness and tangy tomato flavor.
• Heavy Cream: For that signature creamy indulgence that makes this dish so irresistible.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts seamlessly into the sauce, creating pockets of cheesy goodness.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the dish to perfection.

With these simple, flavorful ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a comforting and delicious Creamy Beef and Shells meal that the whole family will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these easy steps to make the ultimate Creamy Beef and Shells:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the medium shell pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Season and Thicken: Stir in the Italian seasoning and all-purpose flour. Cook for 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
5. Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 6-8 minutes, until slightly thickened.
6. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta shells and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef and Shells

To ensure your Creamy Beef and Shells turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips:

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta shells until they’re al dente, as they’ll continue to soften as they bake in the creamy sauce.
• Season Generously: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. The right balance of flavors is key.
• Melt the Cheese Slowly: When adding the shredded cheddar, stir it in gently over low heat to allow it to melt smoothly into the sauce.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up.
• Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, add extra vegetables, or try different protein options like ground turkey or Italian sausage.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Creamy Beef and Shells (approximately 1 1/2 cups) contains:

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g

This dish provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. The shell pasta offers complex carbohydrates and fiber, while the ground beef is a great source of lean protein. The creamy sauce, with its combination of dairy and tomatoes, provides additional nutrients and antioxidants.

Variations of Creamy Beef and Shells

While the classic Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:

• Protein Variations: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even ground chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and use a variety of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach to create a delicious vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta shells and all-purpose gluten-free flour to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a touch of heat.
• Herb and Cheese Variations: Try using different cheese varieties like mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend, and experiment with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Steak Pasta
• One-Pot Creamy Cajun Meatball Pasta
• Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta
• Creamy Garlic Mushroom and Bacon Pasta

FAQs about Creamy Beef and Shells

What ingredients do I need to make Creamy Beef and Shells?

Answer: To make Creamy Beef and Shells, you will typically need the following ingredients:

• Ground beef
• Medium shell pasta
• Cream cheese or sour cream
• Beef broth or stock
• Garlic (fresh or powdered)
• Onion (chopped)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella)
• Optional: vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Beef and Shells?

Answer: The total time to prepare Creamy Beef and Shells is usually around 30 to 40 minutes. This includes about 10 minutes for preparation (chopping onions and garlic, measuring ingredients) and about 20 to 30 minutes for cooking, which involves browning the beef, cooking the pasta, and combining all the ingredients to create the creamy sauce.

Can I make Creamy Beef and Shells ahead of time?

Answer: Yes, you can make Creamy Beef and Shells ahead of time. You can prepare the dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you might want to add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to restore creaminess.

Can I make Creamy Beef and Shells healthier?

Answer: Absolutely! To make Creamy Beef and Shells healthier, consider the following options:

• Use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
• Incorporate whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for added fiber.
• Add more vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost nutritional content.
• Use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of regular cream cheese or sour cream to reduce calories and fat.
• Reduce the amount of cheese or use a lighter cheese option.

Feel free to adjust the recipe to fit your dietary preferences!

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its rich, creamy sauce, tender ground beef, and perfectly cooked shell pasta, this recipe delivers on both flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Creamy Beef and Shells is a crowd-pleasing dish that will leave everyone craving more. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and hearty meal that’s sure to warm your soul.

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