Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

If your idea of weeknight comfort food is something hearty, cozy, and irresistibly creamy, Creamy Beef and Shells is about to become your new go-to! Imagine tender pasta shells bathed in a savory, cheese-laden sauce with juicy bites of seasoned ground beef—this is the dish that wraps you up in a warm culinary hug after a long day.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

No fancy, hard-to-find items here! Each ingredient has a clear purpose, building deep flavor and that signature melty texture. Gather these essentials for a dish that’s as simple as it is spectacular.

• Medium pasta shells: Their cup-like shape catches every drop of that luscious, creamy sauce.
• Olive oil: Just a little bit to get the party started and help the beef brown beautifully.
• Ground beef: Go for 80/20 for a juicy, hearty bite—lean enough not to be greasy, but rich enough for flavor.
• Onion (diced): Adds sweetness and a savory backbone to the sauce.
• Garlic (minced): Brightens the whole dish—don’t skip it if you love depth.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that packs tons of flavor in every sprinkle.
• Paprika: Adds a warm, subtle smokiness and a pop of color.
• Mustard powder: Secret ingredient alert! It brings a slight tang and complexity to the sauce.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens everything up into that creamy, dreamy consistency.
• Beef stock: Deepens the savory flavor and brings everything together.
• Tomato sauce: Gives that classic Italian-American flavor and beautiful color.
• Heavy cream: The magic touch that makes the sauce rich and perfectly smooth.
• Extra-sharp cheddar (shredded): Tangy, melty, and essential—shred your own for best results!
• Salt and pepper: A must for balancing and finishing the whole dish.

Variations

One of the beautiful things about Creamy Beef and Shells is how easy it is to make it your own, whether you need to tweak for what’s in the fridge or accommodate allergies and tastes. Feel free to riff on this dish and watch your family fall in love all over again!

• Swap the Pasta: Use elbows, rotini, or even penne if you don’t have shells—any short pasta will drink up the sauce.
• Up the Veggies: Stir in thawed peas, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
• Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a mix of whatever melty cheeses you like for a new flavor profile.
• Make it Spicy: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or dice up a jalapeño for a little heat.
• Make it Lighter: Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken and use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Begin by cooking your pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water. Stop just as they reach al dente perfection—remember, they’ll soak up more sauce later. Drain the shells and set them aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until its edges are just crisp and golden. Once browned, drain off any excess fat and remove the beef from the skillet to a plate.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Aromatics

Toss the diced onion into the same skillet, letting it soften and turn fragrant, usually about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, and mustard powder, letting everything bloom and sizzle for another minute—it’ll smell incredible!

Step 4: Make the Base of the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the aromatics, stirring constantly as it cooks for about a minute. This step is the secret to a sauce that clings luxuriously to each shell—no lumps allowed!

Step 5: Build the Sauce

Gradually whisk in the beef stock and tomato sauce, stirring to dissolve any tasty bits stuck to the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is slightly thickened.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Add the cooked pasta shells, browned beef, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir gently and warm everything through, letting the flavors mingle for 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Add the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in the extra-sharp cheddar. Stir until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating that signature creaminess only Creamy Beef and Shells can deliver. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells

Garnishes

A final flourish can make Creamy Beef and Shells absolutely irresistible! Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color, or add a little extra shredded cheddar or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who like a touch of heat.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and satisfying all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some garlicky roasted broccoli. For an extra treat, serve alongside warm, crusty bread—perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Creamy Beef and Shells in individual ramekins for a homey, bistro-style feel, or pile high in a large family-style bowl to encourage everyone to dig in. For a playful spin, top with a dollop of sour cream or arrange colorful veggies on top to make weeknights feel a little special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Creamy Beef and Shells keeps wonderfully in the fridge! Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they meld, making for irresistible second helpings.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this dish for another day. Let Creamy Beef and Shells cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months—just note, the sauce may separate a little due to the dairy. A gentle stir during reheating helps bring everything back.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Creamy Beef and Shells gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore that original luscious texture. You can microwave it in 30-second bursts, stirring between each until warmed through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried Creamy Beef and Shells yet, now’s the perfect time—this recipe is pure comfort, and a real crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a go, and get ready for smiles all around the dinner table!

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