Easy Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

If you’re craving a quick, comforting, and family-friendly meal, this Easy Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a perfect choice. Tender pasta shells are mixed with seasoned ground beef and coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s rich, satisfying, and delicious. This one-pan wonder is ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights when you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen.

this Recipes

What is Creamy Beef and Shells?

Creamy Beef and Shells is a hearty pasta dish that combines ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s essentially a mash-up of macaroni and cheese and a ground beef pasta dish, but with a richer, creamier sauce. The beef adds savory flavor and protein, while the shells soak up all the deliciousness of the sauce. It’s a comfort food classic that’s quick, easy, and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients List for Creamy Beef and Shells

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy, creamy beef pasta dish:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 8 oz medium pasta shells
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These simple ingredients combine to create a deliciously creamy and savory pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy dinner.

Substitutions and Variations

This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:

• Ground Meat: While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter option.
• Pasta: Shells are ideal because they capture the creamy sauce, but you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or macaroni.
• Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with olive oil, use almond or coconut milk instead of cream, and replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in spinach, broccoli, or peas for added nutrition. You can also stir in mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

These variations allow you to personalize the dish based on your family’s preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the easy steps to make this delicious Creamy Beef and Shells.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the pan over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce and give it a creamy texture.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Cream

Gradually whisk in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken.

Step 6: Add the Cheese and Seasonings

Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Stir in the Beef and Tomatoes

Add the cooked ground beef and the drained diced tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine everything. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Step 8: Combine with Pasta

Finally, add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your Creamy Beef and Shells turns out perfectly, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Not Draining the Beef: After browning the ground beef, make sure to drain any excess fat. Too much grease can make the dish heavy and oily.
• Curdling the Sauce: When adding the heavy cream, reduce the heat to medium-low to avoid curdling. Stir constantly to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Undercooking the Roux: Be sure to cook the roux for at least 1-2 minutes before adding the liquid. This helps prevent a raw flour taste in the sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Creamy Beef and Shells dish is rich and filling on its own, but you can elevate it with a few thoughtful serving and presentation ideas.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells

• Serve the dish hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a simple green salad or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
• For a heartier option, serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Beef and Shells

• Garnish: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Family-Style: Serve the pasta family-style in a large skillet or serving bowl for a casual, cozy meal.
• Individual Portions: For a more refined presentation, plate individual servings and top with extra cheese or a drizzle of olive oil.

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can cook the ground beef and pasta ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat and make the sauce fresh.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well! Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop or microwave.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different kind of pasta for this recipe?
A: Yes! Any short pasta shape like penne, rotini, or macaroni works well. Just be sure to cook the pasta to al dente for the best texture.

Q: How can I make this dish healthier?
A: To lighten up the dish, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, substitute milk for the heavy cream, and add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute, replace the cream with coconut or almond milk, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

This Easy Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of flavor. With tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and a cheesy, creamy sauce, it’s a dish that will satisfy the whole family. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal to whip up after a long day or a comforting dish to feed a crowd, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious, creamy pasta dish that everyone will love!

Print