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Creamy Beef and Shells

creamy beef and shells - featured image

Tender pasta shells cradling a rich, creamy sauce loaded with savory ground beef and seasonings, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
  • 8 oz medium pasta shells
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to package instructions (8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until there’s no pink remaining, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
  4. Stir in the tomato sauce and beef broth, letting it simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
  6. Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, folding them into the sauce until well-coated. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

If your sauce feels too thick, add an extra splash of beef broth or pasta water to loosen it up. Shred cheese from a block for better melting.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy beef and shells, pasta recipe, easy dinner, comfort food, ground beef recipe