This Creamy Beef and Shells dish is a warm hug in a bowl! It features tender pasta shells filled with tasty beef and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Honestly, it feels like a cozy dinner party in your mouth! I love how quick it is to whip up—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using lean ground beef is a great choice to keep the dish tasty without too much grease. If you want a healthier option, turkey or chicken can work too, just remember they may cook faster.
Pasta Shells: Medium shells are perfect for this creamy sauce because they hold the mixture well. If you don’t have shells, try using any short pasta like penne or fussili instead!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce might be less rich.
Cheeses: I recommend cheddar for its great flavor, but you could easily swap it out for mozzarella or a different cheese you enjoy. Parmesan brings a nice salty touch, which is hard to replace!
Onion and Garlic: These are essential flavors in this dish. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder can be a handy substitute—about 1/8 tsp for each clove.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the pasta just right is key to having a great texture in your dish. Follow these simple tips:
- Always boil water and add salt first—it flavors the pasta.
- Cook pasta until it’s al dente, meaning firm to the bite. This helps it hold up in the creamy sauce!
- Don’t overcook! Drain once done and rinse only if you’re using pasta for a salad. Otherwise, keep the starch to help the sauce cling.
By following these steps and keeping an eye on it, your pasta will turn out fantastic every time!
How to Make Creamy Beef And Shells
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Beef and Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz/425g) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) medium pasta shells
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Beef and Shells dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish! You’ll spend a little over 10 minutes on prep, while the cooking part takes less than 20 minutes. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the medium pasta shells and cook them according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring until it’s fragrant.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Season it with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook the beef until it’s browned and cooked through—this should take about 6-8 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally!
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Once the beef is cooked, pour in the tomato sauce and give it a good stir. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes so that all the flavors can mingle nicely.
5. Make It Creamy:
Next, stir in the heavy cream to create a deliciously creamy sauce. Then add the grated Parmesan cheese and cheddar cheese if you’re using it. Stir until everything is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now, add the drained pasta shells to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the creamy beef sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, serve your creamy beef and shells hot! Top it off with some fresh parsley or basil for a lovely touch.
Enjoy this comforting Creamy Beef and Shells dish that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will make the dish lighter. Just be aware that it might cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on it while browning.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply swap the medium pasta shells for gluten-free pasta. Check the package for cooking instructions, as gluten-free pasta may require different cooking times.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if it seems too thick.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! You can add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for a boost of flavor and nutrition!