Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this creamy beef and shells recipe. This dish combines tender pasta shells with savory ground beef, all coated in a rich, creamy sauce that’s sure to satisfy. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal addition to your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and stir to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pasta is heated through.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and stir until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Beef and Shells
- Quality Beef: Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the dish.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
- Veggie Boost: Add some extra nutrition by stirring in spinach, peas, or bell peppers.
- Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: The creamy, cheesy sauce is a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: You can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite ingredients or use what you have on hand.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be sure to add a little extra cream or broth when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While shells are great for holding the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or macaroni.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze creamy beef and shells. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: What can I serve with creamy beef and shells?
A: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative to beef and will work just as well in this recipe.
Conclusion
Creamy beef and shells is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich, cheesy sauce and tender pasta, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal in just 30 minutes!