Creamy Beef and Shells

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Beef and Shells is a delightful dish that combines hearty flavors with a creamy texture, making it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering. This recipe is not only rich in taste but also simple and quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and even novice cooks can tackle this delicious meal with ease. Plus, who can resist a creamy pasta dish topped with melted cheddar cheese?

When you serve Creamy Beef and Shells, you can expect smiles around the table. The combination of pasta, beef, and a creamy sauce creates a satisfying dish that is sure to please everyone. Whether you are cooking for your family or having friends over, this meal is guaranteed to impress!

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Making Creamy Beef and Shells is straightforward and fun. Each step is designed to build flavor and texture, ensuring you end up with a creamy, savory dish that hits all the right notes. Here’s how to prepare it step-by-step.

Ingredients

To make Creamy Beef and Shells, gather the following ingredients:

• 8 ounces Medium Pasta Shells
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1 small Sweet Onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Dried Parsley
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour
• 2 cups Beef Stock
• 1 cup Marinara Sauce
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 cup Sour Cream
• Kosher Salt to taste
• Black Pepper to taste
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded)

Directions

Follow these directions to create your Creamy Beef and Shells:

1. Cook the Pasta

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the medium pasta shells to the boiling water, and cook them according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.

2. Sauté the Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped sweet onion. Sauté the onion for about 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften. Next, add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently. This will create a lovely aroma that fills your kitchen.

3. Add Ground Beef

Now it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks to ensure it browns evenly. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes until it is browned and no longer pink. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

4. Season the Beef

Next, it’s time to add some flavor. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, dried parsley, dried oregano, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper over the browned beef. Stir everything together and cook for another minute to let the spices toast and release their flavors.

5. Make it Creamy

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the beef mixture and stir it in. This will help thicken the sauce. Gradually add the beef stock, marinara sauce, heavy cream, and sour cream while stirring continuously. Keep stirring until everything is well combined and smooth. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice it starts to thicken and become creamy.

6. Combine with Pasta

After the mixture has simmered, add the drained pasta shells to the skillet. Gently stir to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce and heat through.

7. Add Cheese

Once you’ve combined the pasta and the creamy mixture, it’s time to add the cheese! Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and combined throughout the dish. If you like, you can reserve a bit of cheese to sprinkle on top when serving.

8. Serve

Your Creamy Beef and Shells is now ready to serve! Dish it out hot, garnishing with some fresh parsley or extra cheese on top if desired. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that your family or guests will love.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells can be served in a variety of ways. For a casual dinner at home, simply scoop the creamy pasta into individual bowls and serve it hot. You can also sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or extra shredded cheese on top for a pop of color and flavor.

For a more elegant presentation, consider serving it in a large dish family-style where everyone can help themselves. You can balance the richness of the dish with light sides like a mixed green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables. This combination not only makes for a beautiful table but also helps to touch on a variety of flavors and textures.

How to Store Creamy Beef and Shells

Storing Creamy Beef and Shells is easy and can help you enjoy the dish later. If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers.

Refrigeration: Place the containers in the refrigerator where they can be stored for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep the dish sealed to prevent it from drying out or absorbing unwanted odors from the fridge.

Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, Creamy Beef and Shells can be frozen. To do this, place your portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. They will keep well for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Tips to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

• Enhance the Flavor: Consider adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms along with the onions for additional flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes when seasoning the beef.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further. Consider adding some fresh basil or oregano just before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
• Cheese Variations: If you prefer, you can use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist on this classic recipe.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the medium pasta shells with gluten-free pasta. Double-check labels to ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Variation (if any)

Creamy Beef and Shells is quite versatile! Here are a few variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for cooked lentils or plant-based meat to make it vegetarian. Adjust seasoning to taste.
• Add Vegetables: You can incorporate your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, peas, or zucchini, which provide added nutrients and flavor.
• Spicy Version: For those who enjoy a bit more heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when sautéing the beef.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for medium pasta shells, you can easily swap in other shapes like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti.

2. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can make Creamy Beef and Shells in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. Assemble everything, refrigerate, and heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

3. What can I serve with Creamy Beef and Shells?
This dish pairs well with a simple salad, crusty bread, or even steamed vegetables. You can also add garlic bread for that perfect comfort meal.

4. How do I avoid the pasta shells from getting mushy?
Make sure to cook the pasta al dente (firm to the bite) since it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot sauce, preventing it from becoming mushy.

5. Can I use other proteins?
Certainly! Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. Just follow the same cooking steps and adjust seasoning as necessary.

With its creamy texture and savory flavors, Creamy Beef and Shells is a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction. This recipe is not only easy to make but also allows for family-style meals full of laughter and joy. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Print