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Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

  • Author: Sally
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4-5 1x
  • Category: Dinner

Description

If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up, this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a must-try. Perfectly cooked pasta shells are coated in a rich, savory sauce with seasoned ground beef and a creamy cheese blend. This one-pan dinner is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, offering comfort food vibes without a complicated cooking process. It’s rich, hearty, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re searching for dinner ideas, quick comfort food, or a satisfying pasta dish, this recipe delivers it all in one delicious bowl.


Ingredients

Scale

8 oz medium pasta shells

1 tbsp olive oil

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 cup beef broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  3. Add Flavor: Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute to enhance the flavors.
  4. Create the Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir everything together and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
  5. Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
  6. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy beef sauce. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve immediately.