Creamy Beef and Shells

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s get started with this simple, step-by-step recipe.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. You can toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, but it’s not necessary.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the pan. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until the beef is browned and fully cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

To the skillet, add the beef broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and lift any flavorful brown bits from the bottom. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Add the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked pasta shells into the skillet, stirring to coat them in the creamy beef sauce. Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Serve

For extra creaminess, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes even creamier. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as desired.

Once everything is combined and the sauce is smooth, serve the creamy beef and shells hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips and Variations

While this creamy beef and shells recipe is delicious as it is, there are plenty of ways to make it your own:

• Add Veggies: Sneak in some vegetables for extra nutrition. Sauté spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers with the onion for added flavor and color.
• Use Different Meat: For a different twist, try swapping the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce to give it a spicy kick.
• Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella or Fontina would add a mild, melty texture, while gouda or pepper jack can give a unique flavor.
• Make It Lighter: If you’re looking to cut down on calories, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk for a lighter sauce. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or skip it altogether.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Beef and Shells is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to serve it with some sides, here are a few ideas:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up any leftover sauce.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette will complement the richness of the pasta and provide some freshness to balance the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus are great vegetable sides that pair well with creamy pasta dishes.

Conclusion: A Hearty, Family-Friendly Meal

Creamy Beef and Shells is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug. It’s comforting, delicious, and easy to make, which is why it’s become a favorite in so many homes. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or hosting friends for dinner, this hearty meal is sure to satisfy.

With its creamy, flavorful sauce, tender beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate in comfort food. Give this recipe a try, and it may just become your new go-to for busy nights or whenever you need a bowl of cozy, satisfying goodness.