Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. It combines tender beef with pasta shells in a rich, creamy sauce, making it a meal that everyone will love. The blend of flavors and textures makes it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare!
How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shell pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Begin by cooking the shell pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and stir in the cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells
Serve Creamy Beef and Shells while it’s hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. This dish is great for family-style dining and can be served in individual bowls for a cozy touch.
How to Store Creamy Beef and Shells
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to Make Creamy Beef and Shells
- Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference; you can add more for a cheesier dish.
- For extra flavor, add spices like Italian seasoning or paprika.
Variation
You can switch out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Additionally, try using different types of pasta, like penne or felfi, for a new twist!
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving.
Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure it cools down first. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy sauce and cheesy flavor make it appealing to kids. You can even let them help with mixing and stirring to get them involved in cooking!
Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shell pasta Cook according to package instructions.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Adjust based on preference.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by cooking the shell pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and stir in the cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.