If you’re on the hunt for a hearty, creamy, and satisfying dinner that the whole family will adore, you’ve come to the right place. This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe has everything you could want—tender shell pasta, perfectly seasoned ground beef, and a rich, velvety sauce that ties it all together. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or impressing dinner guests, this dish is bound to be a winner!
Why You’ll Love Creamy Beef and Shells
This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s practical too! Here’s what makes Creamy Beef and Shells a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness are irresistible to kids.
- Comfort Food: There’s nothing quite as cozy as a warm bowl of creamy pasta.
- Versatile: You can easily add vegetables, adjust the seasoning, or even swap the protein to suit your taste.
- Affordable: This meal is made with everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down the simple yet flavorful ingredients you’ll need for this recipe:
- Shell pasta (8 oz): Medium-sized shells work best as they hold onto the sauce well.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Opt for 85% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic goodness.
- Marinara sauce (1 cup): You can use store-bought or homemade for a tomato base.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the luxurious, creamy consistency.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds richness and a hint of sharpness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Intensifies the savory flavor.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 tsp): A blend of herbs that complements the sauce perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
- Fresh parsley (optional): For a bright, fresh garnish.
How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells
Follow these simple steps to create a creamy, delicious pasta dish that everyone will rave about.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Make sure you don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to absorb the sauce later.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess grease if needed. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until it softens. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce, followed by the heavy cream. Add the Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Be sure not to boil the sauce at this stage, as this can cause the cheese to separate.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked shell pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve hot.
Print
Creamy Beef and Shells
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a comforting, flavorful pasta dish made with tender shell pasta, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s the ultimate family-friendly dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz medium shell pasta
- Salt for boiling water
For the Beef and Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean for best flavor)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. - Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon (about 5–7 minutes). If there’s excess grease, drain it. - Cook the Onion and Garlic:
Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened (3–4 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. - Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir. Add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Add the Cheese:
Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce becomes creamy. - Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked shell pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy beef sauce. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes uncovered, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water).
- Lighter Option: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a blend of Monterey Jack and Colby for a different flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to keep it creamy.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 25
Common Problems and Solutions
Even with a straightforward recipe like this one, a few issues can arise. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems:
- Sauce Too Thin: If your sauce is too runny, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken. You can also add a small slurry of cornstarch and water for a quick fix.
- Pasta Overcooked: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente. This means it should still have a slight bite when you drain it.
- Sauce Splits: If the sauce separates or looks curdled, it may be due to overheating after the cheese was added. Keep the heat low when stirring in the cheese and avoid boiling the sauce.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef and Shells
Want to elevate your Creamy Beef and Shells? Here are some helpful tips and tricks:
- Use Quality Cheese: Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Try a Meat Blend: For extra flavor, mix ground beef with ground Italian sausage.
- Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers are great additions if you want to include some veggies.
- Use Half-and-Half for Lighter Sauce: If you want a slightly lighter option, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Reheat Gently: If you’re reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creaminess.
Variations of Creamy Beef and Shells
This recipe is wonderfully versatile! Here are a few ways you can change it up:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Cheese Swap: Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella for a milder, gooey cheese pull.
- Protein Options: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
- Herb Garnish: Top with fresh basil or oregano instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Beef and Shells is hearty enough to serve as a complete meal, but if you want to create a full dinner spread, consider these serving suggestions:
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Nothing beats dipping warm, crusty garlic bread into that creamy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots make a healthy and delicious side.
This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is sure to become one of your family’s favorite meals. It’s quick, easy, budget-friendly, and loaded with rich flavors. Perfect for any occasion, from a casual dinner to a cozy family night, this dish hits all the right notes. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your version—it might just become your signature dish!