Easy Creamy Beef And Shells Recipe

If you're in search of a hearty, flavorful dish that's quick to prepare, you've come to the right place! This Easy Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or when you're craving comfort food. Packed with tender pasta shells, ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish will become a go-to in your home. Read on for the full recipe and discover how to master this delicious, family-friendly meal.

this Recipe

What is "Creamy Beef and Shells"?

Creamy Beef and Shells is a savory pasta dish that combines tender pasta shells with ground beef in a luscious, creamy sauce. The recipe offers a delightful combination of textures with the soft pasta shells and the richness of the creamy, beefy sauce. Whether you're an experienced cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this dish is simple to make and delivers a burst of flavor with every bite. Plus, it's a versatile meal that you can customize to your liking with a variety of ingredients or seasonings.

Ingredients List for Creamy Beef and Shells

• 8 oz (225 g) medium pasta shells
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredients List for the Creamy Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter (optional for richness)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ cup whole milk (you can substitute with other milk)
• ½ cup sour cream (adds a tangy richness to the sauce)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra flavor)

Substitutions and Variations

If you're missing certain ingredients or want to change things up, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to try:

• Ground Meat: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.
• Pasta Shells: Feel free to use other types of pasta such as penne, rigatoni, or macaroni if you don't have shells on hand.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or almond milk. You can also use dairy-free cheese options.
• Add Vegetables: Add extra nutrition by tossing in some vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the beef.
• Spices: For a bolder flavor, add more paprika, or try a dash of cumin or smoked paprika. If you like a little heat, increase the red pepper flakes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta shells in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Cook until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
4. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the tomato paste and diced tomatoes, followed by the paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Simmer with Broth: Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to deepen.
6. Make the Creamy Sauce: While the beef mixture simmers, prepare the creamy sauce in a separate saucepan. Melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until smooth and well combined.
7. Combine the Ingredients: Reduce the heat to low. Stir the creamy sauce into the beef mixture, ensuring everything is coated evenly. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
8. Mix with Pasta: Finally, fold in the cooked pasta shells until they are well coated in the creamy beef sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to fully combine.

How to Cook Creamy Beef and Shells: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Start with the Pasta: Always cook your pasta until al dente. Overcooking the shells can lead to a mushy texture, which will affect the overall consistency of the dish.
2. Brown Your Beef Properly: Ensure the beef is browned evenly for a better flavor. Breaking it into small pieces allows it to cook faster and more thoroughly.
3. Sautéing Makes a Difference: The combination of onions and garlic adds depth to the dish. Make sure to cook them until they're soft but not burnt to avoid bitterness.
4. Layering Flavors: Adding tomato paste and diced tomatoes gives the dish a sweet yet tangy base. Simmering these ingredients with the spices enhances the overall flavor.
5. Perfecting the Creamy Sauce: The sauce is the heart of this dish. Using heavy cream and cheese ensures it’s rich and satisfying. Stirring constantly when making the sauce helps prevent lumps from forming.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta until it's just al dente to avoid a soggy texture when combined with the creamy sauce.
• Not Draining the Beef: Failing to drain the fat from the beef can result in a greasy sauce. Always remove excess fat after browning the meat.
• Lumpy Sauce: Be sure to whisk continuously when making the sauce to prevent it from becoming lumpy. If the sauce does thicken too much, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. A little extra salt or pepper can go a long way in enhancing the dish's flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serve Creamy Beef and Shells hot, straight from the skillet. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over the top for a burst of color and flavor. If you want to elevate the dish even more, serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells

This dish is best served fresh, right after cooking, when the pasta is still warm and the sauce is creamy. For family dinners, you can serve it in a large dish for a shared, casual meal. For more formal settings, consider portioning out individual servings and garnishing with herbs for a restaurant-quality presentation.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Beef and Shells

For a visually appealing presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls or on large plates. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley or basil for a pop of color. You can also drizzle a little olive oil on top for added richness.

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
• Cheese Options: For a different flavor, try using a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack in place of the cheddar.
• Extra Creaminess: If you want the sauce even creamier, add a little more heavy cream or sour cream.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as penne or rotini, can be used.

Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells?
Yes, but the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating. To fix this, add a little cream or milk when reheating and stir well.

What can I serve with this dish?
A fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans make great sides.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash of milk or beef broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Conclusion

This Easy Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a comforting, hearty meal that’s simple to prepare and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of every bite, and don’t be afraid to experiment with substitutions and variations to make it your own! Try it today, and it just might become one of your favorite go-to meals.

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