Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
Craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further than this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe.
This dish is a family favorite, combining tender pasta shells with a rich and creamy beef sauce that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Beef and Shells
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it off before proceeding.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. These aromatics will build a solid flavor foundation for your sauce.
Step 4: Add the Tomato Sauce and Beef Broth
Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. These ingredients form the base of your sauce, providing richness and a slight tanginess that balances the cream.
Step 5: Season the Sauce
Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Add the Cream and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. This is where the magic happens—the sauce becomes creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious.
Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the creamy beef sauce. Make sure every shell is smothered in the rich, cheesy goodness.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is well combined, your Creamy Beef and Shells is ready to serve! Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal.
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Beef and Shells
Use Quality Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your dish. Opt for high-quality ground beef, fresh garlic, and good cheese to ensure your Creamy Beef and Shells is as delicious as possible.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
To keep the pasta from becoming mushy, make sure to cook it al dente. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce, so it’s essential not to overcook it during the boiling stage.
Adjust the Creaminess to Your Liking
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of beef broth slightly or simmer the sauce longer to thicken it. Conversely, if you like a thinner sauce, you can add a splash more beef broth or cream.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Beef and Shells
This dish is a meal in itself, but it can be elevated with a few simple sides.
Serve with a Fresh Salad
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy pasta. Try a simple Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with a tangy balsamic dressing.
Pair with Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic pairing for any pasta dish. The buttery, garlicky bread is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce on your plate.
Add a Side of Steamed Vegetables
Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make a great side dish. They add color and a nutritious element to your meal, balancing out the richness of the Creamy Beef and Shells.
Variations on Creamy Beef and Shells
Spicy Creamy Beef and Shells
For those who like a bit of heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce. The spicy kick pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Mushroom and Beef Shells
Add some sautéed mushrooms to the beef mixture for an earthy flavor that complements the creamy sauce. Mushrooms add an extra layer of umami, making the dish even more savory.
Cheesy Beef and Spinach Shells
Stir in a handful of fresh spinach leaves just before serving. The spinach wilts quickly in the hot sauce and adds a burst of color and nutrition to the dish.
Nutritional Benefits of Creamy Beef and Shells
While Creamy Beef and Shells is definitely a comfort food, it does have some nutritional benefits, especially when made with quality ingredients.
Ground Beef
Ground beef is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It also provides important vitamins and minerals, such as iron and vitamin B12, which are crucial for energy production and red blood cell formation.
Pasta Shells
Pasta is a great source of carbohydrates, which provide the energy your body needs to function. Whole grain pasta can be used to increase the fiber content, promoting better digestion and longer-lasting fullness.
Cheese and Dairy
The cheese and cream in this dish provide calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth. They also contribute protein and essential fats, making this dish more satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Creamy Beef and Shells ahead of time. Simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
Q2: Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells?
This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q3: What other types of pasta can I use?
While shells are ideal for holding the sauce, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or macaroni. Choose a pasta shape that has ridges or hollows to capture the creamy sauce.
Q4: How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using lean ground beef or ground turkey, whole grain pasta, and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, to increase the nutritional content.
Q5: What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce is too thick, simply add a bit more beef broth or cream to thin it out. Add the liquid gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
Creamy Beef and Shells is a dish that brings together the best of comfort food—tender pasta, rich beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or making a big batch for leftovers, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your rotation. So, grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy, delicious goodness!
Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
Craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further than this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe. This dish is a family favorite, combining tender pasta shells with a rich and creamy beef sauce that's sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small sweet onion diced
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 (15oz can) marinara sauce
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese freshly grated
Instructions
Cook pasta per package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water and drain well.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, breaking it with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat and set aside.
In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Whisk in flour until lightly browned, for about 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in beef stock and stir to combine. Add marinara sauce and stir in Italian seasoning, dried parsley, oregano, and paprika.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced and slightly thickened, about 6-8 minutes.
Stir in cooked pasta, and add back beef.
Next, stir in heavy cream until heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust for salt and pepper.
After that, stir in the sour cream.
Next, fold in the cheddar cheese until melted, about 1-2 minutes.
Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if you'd like.