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
Scale
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