Easy Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

The aroma of creamy beef and shells wafts through the kitchen like an inviting hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender pasta shells enveloped in a luscious, cheesy sauce filled with savory ground beef — it’s comfort food at its finest. You can practically hear the angels sing as you dive into this dish after a long day.

This creamy delight isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s about gathering loved ones around the table for those moments filled with laughter and stories. I still remember the first time I made this dish — my partner took one bite and declared it “life-changing.” Talk about pressure. Now, every time I whip it up, I feel like a rock star chef in my own little kitchen arena.

I vividly recall a dinner party where I served this dish; my friends kept sneaking back for seconds (and thirds). Their compliments warmed my heart as much as the dinner itself.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta Shells: Use medium-sized pasta shells for maximum sauce-holding capacity; they are the perfect vessel for all that creaminess.
• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best; it provides flavor without being overly greasy.
• Onion: Chop finely to release its sweet flavor when sautéed; it adds depth to your dish.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are ideal; they infuse the entire meal with aromatic goodness.
• Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while maintaining robust flavor.
• Cream Cheese: Provides that luxurious creaminess we crave; let it soften before mixing for easier incorporation.
• Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar or mozzarella melts beautifully into the sauce; choose your favorite.
• Seasonings: Italian seasoning or garlic powder adds an extra layer of flavor; don’t skimp on these little heroes.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

First things first: gather your ingredients so we can embark on this culinary adventure together.

Cook the Pasta Shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta shells and cook them until al dente according to package instructions — usually around 8-10 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic until they become fragrant and translucent.

Add Ground Beef: Crank up the heat slightly and add ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Create the Sauce: Pour in beef broth while scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan. Stir in softened cream cheese until melted and combined with other ingredients.

Toss in Pasta Shells: Drain cooked pasta shells and fold them gently into your creamy mixture along with shredded cheese. Ensure every shell is coated with that heavenly sauce.

Serve & Enjoy: Transfer creamy beef and shells onto plates or bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or extra cheese if desired—dig into this comforting masterpiece right away.

Now that you’ve conquered this creamy creation, share your triumph with friends or savor it alone while binge-watching your favorite show—no judgment here.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the beef to lock in flavor, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence keeps everything warm and prevents overcooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like spinach for extra nutrition. Different cheeses can also elevate the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

The first time I made Creamy Beef and Shells, my friends devoured it within minutes, demanding more. Their delighted reactions made my heart swell with joy and pride.

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in Creamy Beef and Shells?

You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, prep everything ahead, but cook right before serving for best results.

Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Beef and Shells?

Absolutely. Swap meat for mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

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Creamy Beef and Shells

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting dish that combines tender pasta shells with a rich, cheesy sauce and savory ground beef. Perfect for quick family dinners!

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Ingredients

• Medium-sized pasta shells
• Lean ground beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Low-sodium beef broth
• Cream cheese
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Italian seasoning

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat until fragrant.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet; cook until browned (5-7 minutes), draining excess fat if necessary.
4. Pour in beef broth, scraping any bits from the pan, then stir in softened cream cheese until melted.
5. Fold cooked pasta shells into the creamy mixture along with shredded cheese until well coated.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or additional cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 75mg