Creamy Beef and Shells

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting dish that brings together the flavors of savory beef, creamy sauces, and tender pasta shells. It’s the perfect combination for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering. This recipe is not only easy to make but also satisfying and delicious. Your loved ones will appreciate a hearty meal that warms them up, and you will love how quick it is to prepare. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, meaning less clean-up time for you!

Whether you are in a rush to get dinner on the table or looking to impress someone with your cooking skills, this dish can meet both needs. The creamy texture and rich flavors come together beautifully, making it an appealing choice for people of all ages. From kids to adults, everyone enjoys the combination of cheese, beef, and pasta. Serve it up with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Making Creamy Beef and Shells is an enjoyable process that results in a delightful meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide that will help you through the preparation and cooking.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces Medium Pasta Shells
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 1 small Sweet Onion
• 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:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the medium pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. After cooking, drain the shells and set them aside.

2. Sauté the Beef: In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Then, add the chopped sweet onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add Ground Beef: Time to bring in the flavor! Add the one pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef until it turns brown, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If there is excess fat, be sure to drain it to keep your dish from becoming greasy.

4. Season the Beef: Now, it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, dried parsley, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine the spices into the beef mixture and let it cook for about 1 minute to allow the flavors to blend.

5. Make it Creamy: To create that luscious creaminess, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the beef mixture. Stir it in, then gradually add the beef stock, marinaras sauce, heavy cream, and sour cream while stirring continuously. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, giving it time to thicken and become delicious.

6. Combine with Pasta: Now, you can add your drained pasta shells to the creamy beef mixture. Stir gently to make sure the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let everything meld together.

7. Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into that creamy goodness.

8. Serve: Your Creamy Beef and Shells is ready! Serve it hot, and if desired, garnish with extra parsley or more cheese to make it look even more appealing.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells

Serving Creamy Beef and Shells is a breeze. Once it’s ready, scoop generous portions onto plates or into bowls. Depending on the occasion, you can also serve it family-style right from the pot. This inviting dish pairs well with several sides. Consider serving it with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

For extra flavor, you might sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, over the top. This not only adds color but also gives your meal a fresh touch. If you have diners who enjoy spicy food, consider placing hot sauce or red pepper flakes on the table for them to customize their plates.

How to Store Creamy Beef and Shells

If you happen to have leftovers (which is often the case with this delicious dish!), storing Creamy Beef and Shells is quite simple. Allow the dish to cool completely after cooking. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 5 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the dish appears a bit dry, you can add a splash of beef stock or a little cream while reheating to bring back that creamy texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze Creamy Beef and Shells. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for about 2 to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook a bit when mixed with the hot beef mixture and should maintain a good texture.

• Use Quality Beef: Since beef is the main protein in this dish, choosing a good quality ground beef can make a significant difference in flavor. Consider using lean beef for a healthier option.

• Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste! If you prefer a different flavor profile, experiment with other seasonings you enjoy.

• Make it Extra Cheesy: If you love cheese, don’t hesitate to add more cheese to the recipe or use different types of cheese for a unique twist.

• Add Vegetables: To boost the nutrition of this meal, consider adding vegetables such as spinach, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can sauté them along with the onion.

Variations

While Creamy Beef and Shells is delicious as it is, there are plenty of fun variations to try:

• Spicy Variation: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish some heat.

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms to create a meatless version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef stock.

• Different Pastas: While medium pasta shells are perfect, you can try using different shapes of pasta like fusilli or penne.

• Cheesy Broccoli Beef and Shells: Add steamed broccoli florets for a pop of color and added nutrition.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef and sauce in advance, then combine it with the pasta just before serving. This way, it’s ready to go quickly when you’re ready to eat.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses if you prefer something different. Each cheese will give the dish a unique flavor.

How can I make it gluten-free?

To make Creamy Beef and Shells gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Is it possible to double this recipe?

Yes! This recipe can easily be doubled if you are cooking for a crowd. Just make sure to use a larger pot when cooking the pasta and a large skillet or a pot for the beef and sauce.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions on the stove, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Just add the pasta in the last 30 minutes so it doesn’t overcook.

Creamy Beef and Shells is an excellent dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this delicious meal can quickly become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the cooking process, savor the rich flavors, and, most importantly, enjoy every bite!

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