Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy – A luscious, cheesy sauce that coats every bite.
- Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will enjoy this comforting pasta dish.
- One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup means more time to relax.
- Customizable – Easy to adapt with different cheeses, veggies, or seasonings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Beef – In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Vegetables and Spices – Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce – Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute. Gradually stir in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Cream and Cheese – Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
- Combine with Pasta – Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the creamy beef sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve – Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Variations
- Cheese Options – Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend for a different cheesy flavor.
- Veggie Boost – Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Spice It Up – Increase the red pepper flakes or add cayenne for extra heat.
- Protein Swap – Use ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a twist.
- Cream Alternative – Use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between heating.
FAQs
How can I make this dish even creamier?
You can add extra heavy cream or mix in some cream cheese for an ultra-rich texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat before serving. Add a little milk or broth if needed.
What’s the best type of pasta for this recipe?
Medium pasta shells work best, but you can also use penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative for a leaner option.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not really, but you can adjust the spice level by increasing or omitting the red pepper flakes.
What can I serve with Creamy Beef and Shells?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
How do I prevent the cheese from becoming grainy?
Make sure to add the cheese over low heat and stir constantly until smooth.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Peas, bell peppers, or spinach would be great additions.
What other cheeses can I use?
Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend would all work well.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Let it simmer a bit longer, or add a small cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
Conclusion
Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food—easy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Try it with your favorite variations and enjoy a hearty, delicious meal in just 30 minutes!
