When it comes to quick, hearty, and comforting meals, nothing beats Creamy Beef and Shells. This one-pot pasta dish is loaded with tender pasta shells, savory seasoned ground beef, and a rich, cheesy tomato-cream sauce. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and meaty goodness, making it a family favorite for busy weeknights.
If you love mac and cheese but want something even more satisfying, this dish is for you! The creamy, velvety sauce, combined with the bite-sized pasta shells, soaks up all the incredible flavors. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it an easy go-to dinner.
Ingredients
(Serves 4-6)
For the Pasta:
- 400g medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Beef Mixture:
- 500g ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced (about 100g)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons (20g) all-purpose flour
- 240ml beef broth
- 240ml heavy cream
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 tablespoons (30g) tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 150g shredded cheddar cheese
- 100g shredded mozzarella cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt, and cook the pasta shells until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add the onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft.
- Remove the beef mixture from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
- Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked beef mixture to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta shells, mixing until everything is evenly combined.
- Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, letting them melt into the sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 7g
Tips & Tricks for the Best Creamy Beef and Shells
???? Use Different Cheeses – Swap cheddar for gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
???? Make It Extra Meaty – Add crumbled sausage or crispy bacon for even more richness.
????️ Add Some Spice – A dash of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes gives it a nice kick.
???? Boost the Veggies – Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrients.
???? Make It a One-Pot Meal – Cook the pasta directly in the sauce by adding an extra 240ml of broth.
Creative Variations to Try
???? Creamy Marinara Beef and Shells – Add extra tomato sauce for a deeper tomato flavor.
???? Philly Cheesesteak Pasta – Swap beef for thinly sliced steak and add sautéed bell peppers.
???? Lighter Version – Use ground turkey and light cream for a healthier twist.
???? Buffalo Beef and Shells – Stir in Buffalo sauce for a spicy, tangy version.
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