Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion
diced
- 2 cloves garlic
minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 can tomato sauce
15-ounce
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
uncooked
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
room temperature
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley
chopped for garnish
Directions
- 1
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat (optional).
- 2
Add the diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until fragrant.
- 3
Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture, stir to combine, and cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- 4
Gradually add the beef broth, followed by the tomato sauce, stirring continuously. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the liquid to a boil.
- 5
Add the pasta, stir well, then add the lid and reduce the heat to medium. Let simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Stir every few minutes to keep the pasta from sticking.
- 6
When the pasta is cooked, add the heavy cream and stir. Top the dish with the cheese, cover with a lid, and leave to melt for 2-3 minutes.
- 7
Stir the cheese into the dish and serve with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy!
Creamy Beef and Shells
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About this Recipe
Looking for that perfect, comforting weeknight meal that won't leave you with a mountain of dishes? This one-pot creamy beef and shells recipe delivers hearty, budget-friendly satisfaction with minimal fuss, bringing everyone to the table in record time.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes this recipe a true winner is its simplicity combined with rich flavor development. By browning the ground beef and building a savory base with aromatic onions, garlic, and a blend of Italian seasoning, paprika, and mustard powder, you create depth that elevates simple ingredients. The addition of flour helps create a velvety sauce that perfectly coats the pasta shells, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.
What to Expect
Imagine tender pasta shells swimming in a thick, savory tomato-cream sauce, studded with perfectly seasoned ground beef. This dish offers a wonderfully balanced flavor profile: the tang of tomato sauce mellowed by the richness of heavy cream and savory beef broth. The shredded cheddar cheese melts seamlessly into the sauce, adding an extra layer of creamy, cheesy goodness that makes it truly irresistible. It's a deeply comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, yet it's straightforward enough for even a busy weeknight.
Customization & Variations
This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your pantry and preferences.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
- Cheese Swap: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the seasonings for a touch of heat if you enjoy a little kick.
Serving & Context
This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or anytime you need a satisfying meal without much fuss. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a bright finish and serve it straight from the pot for an easy, no-frills presentation.