This creamy beef and shells pasta is a cozy dish that warms the heart. With ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s a winner for family dinners!
You’ll love how quick it is to make! Just brown the beef, mix everything up, and enjoy. Perfect for those nights when you want comfort food without the fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta Shells: The larger pasta shells are perfect for holding creamy sauce. If you’re out of shells, you can use bow tie, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni!
Ground Beef: I recommend lean ground beef for less grease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Vegan crumbles can be a great substitute if you want a meat-free dish.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk. Coconut milk can also give a unique, creamy texture if you want a dairy-free option.
Cheese: Cheddar adds flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick. And if you’re dairy-free, look for vegan cheese that melts well!
How Do I Get the Beef Nice and Flavorful?
Cooking the beef properly is key to making this dish shine. Start by browning the meat well to develop flavor. Also, using fresh garlic and onion adds great depth!
- Heat oil in your skillet, then add onions first. Sauté until they are translucent to start building flavor.
- Next, add minced garlic and cook for just a minute—overcooking can make it bitter.
- Then, add the ground beef. Break it up as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly.
This combination of aromatic veggies and well-cooked beef really enhances the taste of your creamy pasta! Don’t rush this step!
How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Meat:
- 8 oz pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings:
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Essentials:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and the remaining 20 minutes will be spent sautéing, simmering, and combining the ingredients. Easy and perfect for those busy weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant.
3. Add the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks, browning it thoroughly. Once browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat if needed.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste. Then pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to gently heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help create a rich, creamy sauce.
6. Mix in the Pasta and Cheese:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta shells and shredded cheese to the skillet. Stir well until the cheese is melted and everything is evenly coated in that delicious creamy sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Adjust the seasoning as needed, remove from heat, and serve warm. If you’d like, you can garnish your meal with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Beef and Shells Pasta!
FAQ for Creamy Beef and Shells Pasta
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While pasta shells hold the creamy sauce beautifully, you can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, like rotini, penne, or even elbow macaroni.
What Can I Use Instead of Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian twist, you can use lentils or a plant-based meat alternative that resembles ground beef.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with canned coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese that melts well. This way, you can still enjoy a creamy texture without the dairy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to help loosen the sauce.