Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting dish that combines tender pasta shells with savory ground beef and a luscious creamy sauce. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something hearty. Plus, it’s loved by both kids and adults, making it a family favorite.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reduce heat, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells
Serve Creamy Beef and Shells warm right out of the pot. You can garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. This dish goes well with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Beef and Shells
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up if it thickens.
Tips to Make Creamy Beef and Shells
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat.
- For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- You can substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream if you want a lighter version.
Variation
You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli to the dish for extra nutrition. Just toss them in during the cooking process to let them wilt and cook through.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, though shells hold the sauce well.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with chopped mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
3. Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat.
- 2 cups heavy cream Can substitute half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- to taste salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- to garnish fresh parsley For garnish to add color and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reduce heat, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.