Creamy Beef and Shells: Indulgent One-Pot Delight

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, the passionate creator behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe
that brings comfort and joy right to your dinner table: One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells. This
dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet indulgent. It’s a family favorite at my
home, especially when my son helps out in the kitchen, stirring the creamy goodness.

Living in New Jersey, I love incorporating seasonal ingredients into my meals. But this recipe is so versatile,
it can be enjoyed any time of the year! So, let’s dive into this deliciousness!

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells, you’ll need the following
ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces large shell pasta
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Timing

This delightful dish comes together surprisingly quickly. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

In just half an hour, you can have a delicious meal on the table, perfect for busy families!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to make your One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Stir frequently until
the beef is no longer pink and the onion becomes translucent.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Then, stir in the
diced tomatoes, including the juice.

Step 3: Pour in Beef Broth

Now, add the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, it’s time to add the shell pasta.
Stir everything together and reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Pasta

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente. Stir it
occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper
to taste. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, serve your One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells hot, garnished with fresh parsley if
desired. Enjoy this delicious meal with your family!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 30g
• Sugar: 3g
• Fiber: 2g

This dish is hearty and filling, making it perfect for a family dinner!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten up this recipe, here are some easy swaps:

• Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative.
• Add more vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, for extra nutrition.
• Choose whole grain or chickpea pasta for added fiber.

These alternatives can make the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Garlic bread
• Fresh garden salad
• Steamed broccoli
• Roasted vegetables

Each of these options complements the creamy flavors and adds a delightful crunch or freshness!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your dish turns out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
• Make sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste; every palate is different.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll create a dish your family will rave about!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare in our house!), here’s how to store them:

• Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, making it a great meal prep option!

Conclusion

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is an indulgent delight that will warm your family’s
hearts and bellies. It’s easy, quick, and oh-so-delicious. Cooking should be a joyful experience, and I hope
this recipe brings you as much happiness as it does to my family.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving.

What if I don’t have shell pasta?

No worries! You can use any pasta shape you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, and you’re good to go!

Final Thoughts

Cooking is a journey, and I’m thrilled to share mine with you through recipes like this one. I hope you find
joy in making this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells with your loved ones. Remember, it’s
not just about the food; it’s about the memories created in the kitchen. Happy cooking!

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