Creamy Beef and Shell – The combination of pasta shells, savory ground beef, and the rich cheesy sauce was a hit. It brought me satisfaction to see my family enjoying this comforting meal. Creamy Beef and Shell quickly became an addition, to our dinner routine reminding us that sometimes the simplest recipes can bring joy to the dinner table.
One night after a day, at work I decided to surprise my family with a brand-new dish. Creamy Beef and Shell. As I followed the recipe the enticing smell of the beef and simmering sauce filled our home creating a welcoming atmosphere. My husband, who is usually quite reserved when it comes to food couldn’t resist taking a sneak taste from the skillet. His face lit up with delight. It was a start. When I served steaming bowls of pasta my child’s eyes sparkled with curiosity and excitement. With their first bite, their eyes widened in happiness.
What makes this Creamy Beef and Shell truly delightful?
Creamy Beef and Shell is a comfort food providing a satisfying dining experience in just 30 minutes. This recipe flawlessly combines pasta shells with seasoned ground beef all embraced in a luxurious and creamy sauce that’s both fulfilling and indulgent. The incorporation of sharp cheddar cheese elevates the dish to new heights by creating a creamy cheesy flavor that is absolutely delightful. It’s a meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike making it an ideal choice, for dinners. With its quick preparation time and crowd-pleasing taste Creamy Beef and Shell effortlessly transforms everyday ingredients into an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone craving seconds.
What You Need To Make This Creamy Beef and Shell Recipe?
Pasta: When it comes to choosing pasta shells medium-sized shells work great because they can hold the creamy sauce well. However, if you want to get a bit adventurous feel free to try out other shapes of pasta.
Ground Beef: To keep the dish from getting greasy it’s best to go for lean ground beef. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead.
Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs, like oregano, basil and thyme that adds a burst of flavor. If you want to personalize it feel free to add your favorite herbs into the mix.
Extra-Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Using extra sharp cheddar cheese gives the dish a bold and robust cheese flavor. If you prefer something milder go ahead. Substitute it with a less intense cheese variety.
Tomato Sauce: When it comes to tomato sauce pick your favorite one—plain or with additional herbs and seasonings—based on your taste preferences. Adjust the amount according to how much tomato flavor you desire in your dish.
Heavy Cream: For that creaminess, in your dish heavy cream is a great choice. However, if you’re watching your calorie intake, half-and-half or whole milk can serve as alternatives.
Seasoning: Don’t forget the importance of seasoning! Enhance the taste by adding salt and pepper according to your liking. Tweak the seasoning to suit your taste and achieve a balanced flavor that matches your preference.
Steps To Make Creamy Beef and Shell:
Step 1: Alright, let’s jump into this combination of creamy beef and pasta shells! To start get your pasta shells boiling. Just follow the instructions, on the package. Cook them until they reach that al dente texture. Once they’re done drain them like a chef on a cooking show. Set those beautiful shells aside.
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Step 2: Now grab a skillet. Heat it up over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Once it’s nice and hot add the ground beef. We want that brown color, so crumble and cook it for around 3 to 5 minutes. Remember to drain off any fat from the beef before moving on.
Step 3: Let’s bring in some vegetable goodness. Toss the onions into the skillet. Give them a little sauté dance. Cook them until they turn translucent and release their aroma; this should take 2 to 3 minutes. Then add in garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, and just a dash of mustard powder. Your kitchen will be filled with scents in no time!
Step 4: Time to get saucy! Whisk in the flour until it gets lightly browned; this usually takes a minute. Gradually pour in the beef stock and tomato sauce while whisking everything together.
Step 5: It’s like orchestrating a symphony of flavors. Allow everything to simmer. You’ll witness the sauce beautifully thicken in 6 to 8 minutes.
Step 6: This is where the magic happens. Stir in those cooked pasta shells and our browned beef. Let’s add some richness with cream. Season it with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. We’re not just preparing a meal; we’re crafting a work of art.
Step 7: Finally, for the finale let’s introduce the cheesy element. Sprinkle in that sharp cheddar cheese and watch it transform into pure cheesy perfection as it melts. It will be impossible to resist indulging in a taste test at this point.
Step 8: Serve it up. Get prepared for your taste buds to rejoice! It’s creamy, cheesy, beefy and incredibly delicious. Enjoy your feast of Creamy Beef and Shells!
Tip:
Looking to enhance the taste? Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil right before you serve it. These vibrant herbs will add a pop of color and a delightful herbal fragrance, to your beef and shell dish taking your dining experience to the next level. It’s like having that secret touch from a chef turning your meal into something truly gourmet!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Sure! While the recipe suggests using medium pasta shells feel free to try other pasta shapes based on your preference. Penne, rotini or fusilli are all great options that will hold the creamy sauce as well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Absolutely! You can make this dish with beef and shells ahead of time. Simply follow the instructions, let it cool down and store it in a container, in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creamy consistency.
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef?
Definitely! If you prefer ground turkey or chicken over ground beef they can be substitutes in this recipe. They offer an option, with a different taste. Just follow the cooking instructions when using these ingredients instead.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Creamy Beef and Shell
Ingredients
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 15- ounce jar tomato sauce
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 ounces shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese about 1 ½ cups
Instructions
- Start by cooking 8 ounces of pasta shells according to the instructions, on the package. Once cooked drain them.
- In a skillet heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil and brown 1 pound of ground beef. Remove any fat.
- Next, add the onion. Cook it until it becomes translucent. Then incorporate 2 cloves of garlic, 1 ½ teaspoons of seasoning, 1 teaspoon of paprika and ½ teaspoon of mustard powder.
- To make a browned mixture whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of beef stock and a jar containing 15 ounces of tomato sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens slightly.
- Add the pasta to the skillet along with ¾ cup of cream. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Finally, melt in 6 ounces of extra sharp cheddar cheese for an added touch. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
