Let me tell you, creamy beef and shells is my go-to dish for those hectic weeknights when I just want something hearty and delicious on the table in no time. I remember the first time I made this for my family—everyone gathered around the dinner table, and the smiles on their faces as they took their first bites were just priceless! It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is so simple, perfect for beginners like you. With a creamy sauce that clings to the pasta shells and savory ground beef, it’s comfort food at its best. Trust me, once you try this creamy beef and shells recipe, it’ll become a family favorite in your home too!

Ingredients List

Before we dive into making this creamy beef and shells, let’s gather what we need! Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process so much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef: This is the star of the dish! Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or your favorite fat content for extra flavor.
• 2 cups large pasta shells: These are perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce! You can find them in any pasta aisle—just make sure they’re the large size for maximum creaminess.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This is what gives the dish its luxurious, creamy texture. Don’t skimp on it—trust me, it makes all the difference!
• 1 cup shredded cheese: I love using a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for that melty goodness, but feel free to pick your favorite cheese!
• 1 cup beef broth: This adds depth to the sauce. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that lovely garlicky flavor! Fresh garlic works too, just mince a couple of cloves.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: It adds a subtle sweetness and flavor. If you prefer, you can sauté some chopped onion with the beef instead!
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning! Start with a pinch and adjust as you go.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: This is optional, but a sprinkle of fresh herbs really brightens up the dish.

How to Prepare Creamy Beef and Shells

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This is where the magic happens, and I promise, it’s all super straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in the 2 cups of large pasta shells. Cook them according to the package instructions—usually around 8-10 minutes—until they’re al dente. Trust me, you want them to have a little bite! When they’re done, drain them thoroughly and set them aside. If you leave too much water, it can water down your creamy sauce later, and we definitely don’t want that!

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. You want it to brown nicely, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to cook it all the way through! Once it’s browned, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet—this helps keep the dish from being too greasy.

Step 3: Season the Beef

Now it’s time to add some flavor! Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together well, letting those spices mingle with the beef for about a minute. The aroma will be heavenly, and you’ll know you’re on the right track!

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and 1 cup of heavy cream. This is where the magic really starts! Stir everything together until it’s well combined and looks oh-so-creamy. Let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now, let’s bring it all together! Carefully add the cooked pasta shells into the skillet, folding them into that luscious creamy sauce. Make sure each shell gets a good coating of sauce; you want them to be absolutely drenched in that deliciousness!

Step 6: Melt the Cheese

Time for the best part—cheese! Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of your creamy mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help the cheese melt into gooey perfection. Keep an eye on it, and once it’s melted and bubbly, you’re ready to move on!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, it’s time to serve up this creamy beef and shells! Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that pop of color and a little freshness. Serve it warm, and watch as everyone digs in with delight! I like to pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you can whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
• Delicious Flavor: The creamy sauce combined with savory ground beef and cheesy goodness creates a comforting dish that everyone will love.
• Beginner-Friendly: This recipe is super straightforward and requires no fancy cooking techniques, so it’s perfect for novice cooks.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means less mess and easier cleanup. Yay!
• Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to switch up the cheese or add your favorite veggies for a twist. It’s versatile and forgiving!
• Family Favorite: It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips for Success

To make sure your creamy beef and shells turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks. Trust me, a little attention to detail goes a long way!

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: When cooking the pasta shells, aim for al dente. They’ll continue to cook a bit when mixed with the sauce, so you don’t want them mushy from the start!
• Drain Well: Remember to drain the pasta thoroughly to avoid excess water. A soggy sauce is a sad sauce, and we definitely want that creamy goodness to shine!
• Watch the Heat: When cooking the beef, keep an eye on the heat. If it’s too high, the beef can burn instead of browning nicely. Medium heat is your best friend here!
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses! Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan on top can add a delightful twist.
• Add Veggies: Want to sneak in some veggies? Try adding spinach or peas when you mix in the pasta. They’ll add color, nutrition, and flavor without fuss!
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving! Everyone has different preferences for salt and pepper, so don’t hesitate to adjust to your liking.
• Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they reheat beautifully! Just add a splash of beef broth or cream when reheating to bring back that creamy consistency.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most delicious creamy beef and shells, and impressing your family or guests! Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Please note that the nutritional information for this creamy beef and shells recipe can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The values provided are estimates and should not be considered precise. For the most accurate nutritional information, I recommend checking the labels on your ingredients. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and remember that the joy of making a meal is just as important as the numbers on a nutrition label!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While large pasta shells are perfect for holding that creamy sauce, you can substitute them with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.

Can I make creamy beef and shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep this dish ahead! Just cook everything as directed and then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to bring back that creamy texture.

What can I add for extra flavor?

If you want to kick things up a notch, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some Italian seasoning. You could even throw in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added depth and nutrition!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a bit more cream or broth to keep it creamy!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! You can swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative, like lentils or meatless ground beef. Just adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian creamy beef and shells!

Creamy Beef and Shells: 7 Steps to Comfort Food Bliss

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

A simple and delicious creamy beef and shells recipe that’s perfect for beginners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 cups large pasta shells
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Stir well.
4. Pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Mix until combined.
5. Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet. Stir to coat the shells in the creamy sauce.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

• Make sure to drain the pasta shells well to avoid excess water.
• Use any type of cheese you prefer for variation.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: creamy beef and shells, easy beef recipe, pasta recipe