Creamy Beef and Shells

In my kitchen, creamy dishes like this always bring joy to the dinner table. Creamy Beef and Shells is a delightful dish that combines tender pasta with rich beef in a savory creamy sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for comfort food on a chilly evening, this dish hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This recipe is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for those hectic nights when you want a nourishing meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta beautifully, making every bite feel special. Plus, kids love it, making it a great family dinner option!

“This dish has quickly become a family favorite! It’s creamy, flavorful, and so easy to make—all in under 30 minutes!”

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

The Cooking Process Explained

Making Creamy Beef and Shells is straightforward and involves just a few key steps. You’ll start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions, brown the ground beef, and then create a savory sauce with a few flavorful ingredients. Finally, everything comes together in one pot, making clean-up a breeze.

What You’ll Need

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small sweet onion (diced)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 (15 oz can) marinara sauce
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (freshly grated)

Flavor Notes

Feel free to customize the spices to suit your taste! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick, and you can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a milder flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary and set the beef aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté until soft, about 2 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook until lightly browned, which will take about 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in the beef stock until everything is combined. Stir in the marinara sauce, followed by the Italian seasoning, dried parsley, oregano, and smoked paprika. Bring this mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 6-8 minutes.
7. Add the drained pasta back to the skillet along with the cooked ground beef, stirring gently to combine.
8. Pour in the heavy cream and cook until heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Finally, stir in the sour cream, followed by the grated cheddar cheese until melted, which should take another 1-2 minutes.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting dish that stands beautifully on its own, but it pairs well with a refreshing green salad or steamed veggies for a light balance. A glass of crisp white wine or a sparkling lemonade can perfectly complement the flavors too!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your creamy dish again, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain its creamy texture. You can also freeze this dish for up to a month; just be sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Time-Saving Tip: You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time and combine it with the pasta when you’re ready to serve.
• Cheese Choices: For a twist, try mixing in different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms as you sauté the onions for added nutrition!

Creative Twists

Feel free to switch up the protein! Ground chicken or turkey works beautifully in this recipe, offering a lighter option. You can also make it vegetarian by using mushrooms and a hearty meat substitute.

Nutrition Table

Enjoy making and sharing this creamy, delicious dish—it’s sure to become a staple in your home!