Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make in just 30 minutes
Family-friendly and loved by both kids and adults
Uses simple pantry staples
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

Ingredients

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

Medium pasta shells
Ground beef
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Beef broth
Tomato sauce
Heavy cream
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper
Italian seasoning
Olive oil

Directions

Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, then add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
Gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and stir until well coated in the sauce.
Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for Colby Jack or Gouda for a unique flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta shells.

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 in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How can I make this dish even creamier?

For extra creaminess, add an extra splash of heavy cream or more cheese while stirring.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Medium shells are ideal because they hold the sauce well, but you can also use elbow macaroni or penne.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s best to use freshly shredded cheese as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Can I make this without tomato sauce?

Yes, you can use a cheese-only sauce by adding more cream and broth.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Avoid overheating the cheese and melt it over low heat while stirring constantly.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours. Stir in the cheese and pasta before serving.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the creamy and cheesy flavors of this dish.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce won’t be as rich. You can thicken it with a little butter or cream cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy Beefy Shells & Cheese is the perfect comfort meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try out different variations to make it your own, and enjoy a bowl of cheesy, beefy goodness!

Creamy Beefy Shells & Cheese

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This Creamy Beefy Shells & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food! Made with tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce, this one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights. A family favorite that’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic to the beef, cooking until softened.
Season the mixture: Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Add liquids: Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Make it creamy: Stir in heavy cream and butter, cooking until smooth.
Add the cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta shells and stir until well coated.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Notes

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half if preferred.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.