Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells is a rich and comforting dish that combines savory ground beef with tender pasta shells in a creamy, flavorful sauce. This one-pot meal is easy to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, offering a satisfying balance of protein, carbs, and creaminess. The combination of beef, cheese, and a creamy sauce is bound to make this dish a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this dish can be ready in under 30 minutes.
• Creamy and Comforting: The creamy sauce coats the pasta shells and beef perfectly, making every bite indulgent.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is always a win, and this dish is made in just one pot!
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy, creamy goodness, it’s a sure hit with kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to make it even heartier.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Large shell pasta (or any pasta you prefer)
• Onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Sour cream
• Beef broth (or chicken broth)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the shell pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up the beef, until browned and cooked through.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, sour cream, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta shells to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
5. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: Add cooked spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for more veggies.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a little heat.
• Cheese Lovers: Add a mix of cheeses like cheddar or Gruyere to the sauce for extra flavor and creaminess.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano for more depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Reheating: Reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen up the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While shell pasta works great, you can use other types of pasta such as penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and creamy sauce ahead of time, then simply add the cooked pasta and cheese when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use light cream cheese or sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute with light versions of cream cheese or sour cream if you want a lighter dish, though it may affect the creaminess slightly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes! To make this dish in the slow cooker, cook the beef and onions on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the cream cheese, sour cream, and beef broth, and cook on low for 2-3 hours. Stir in the cheese and pasta before serving.

Can I use ground beef with a higher fat content?

For a richer flavor, you can use ground beef with a higher fat content. Just be sure to drain any excess fat before adding the cream cheese and other ingredients.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Make sure not to overcook the pasta before combining it with the sauce. Cook the pasta al dente (slightly firm) and drain it well before adding to the skillet.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. This easy one-pot dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy sauce, tender beef, and cheesy goodness, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal everyone will love!

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