Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, cheesy, and satisfying pasta dish that comes together quickly and easily. With tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy tomato sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you’re craving something cozy and delicious. Think of it as an elevated, homemade version of Hamburger Helper!
🧀 Ingredients
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Cook the beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Sauté the diced onion until soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more. - Brown the beef:
Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat. - Season and thicken:
Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle flour over the beef and stir for 1 minute. - Make the sauce:
Slowly add beef broth and tomato sauce. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Cream it up:
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer until thickened slightly, about 3 minutes. - Add cheese and pasta:
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Add cooked pasta shells and toss to combine. - Garnish and serve:
Top with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
💡 Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it continues to absorb sauce after combining.
- Drain the beef well to keep the sauce from getting greasy.
- Add broth gradually to prevent lumps after adding flour.
🔁 Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or swap in pepper jack cheese.
- Healthier option: Use ground turkey and low-fat cream or Greek yogurt.
- Veggie boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Different pasta: Use elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne if preferred.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or milk.
Can I freeze it?
It’s best fresh, but you can freeze leftovers. Thaw and reheat gently, stirring in extra cream or cheese to revive the texture.
Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely—creamy, cheesy, and mild in spice makes it a hit with kids.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar melts well and adds a rich flavor, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella can also be used.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for balance.
- Pair with garlic bread or buttered rolls to soak up the sauce.
- Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine or a cold sparkling water with lemon.
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