Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic wafted through the air, instantly warming my heart. It reminded me of those cherished evenings spent gathered around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter over comforting meals. Today, I’m excited to share my Creamy Beef and Shells recipe—a delightful dish that combines savory ground beef and medium pasta shells in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Not only can this comforting meal be ready in just 30 minutes, but it’s also a budget-friendly option packed with 34 grams of protein per serving. Whether you’re aiming to impress family or seeking a quick solution on busy weeknights, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between flavor and simplicity. Curious about how to elevate your pasta game without the fuss? Let’s dive in! Why is Creamy Beef and Shells special? Simplicity at its finest: With only 30 minutes needed, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor. Rich and Creamy sauce: The combination of tomato sauce and cream creates a mouthwatering, velvety texture that everyone will love. Versatility is key: Easily adapt this recipe for a vegan option using lentils and cashew cream, keeping it delicious for every diet. You can also add in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Budget-friendly feast: This meal satisfies without breaking the bank, making it a go-to for families. Crowd-pleasing appeal: With a familiar, comforting taste, Creamy Beef and Shells will remind you of home-cooked favorites like Cheesy Beef Chimichangas your family will crave again and again! This delightful dish ensures dinner time is all about flavor and warmth, creating precious moments around the table. Creamy Beef and Shells Ingredients For the Pasta • Medium Pasta Shells – These shells provide the perfect structure to hold the creamy sauce; consider using elbow macaroni for a fun twist! For the Beef Mixture • Ground Beef – A hearty source of protein that makes the dish filling; swap with ground turkey for a lighter option. • Onion (1/2 medium) – Adds a depth of flavor; shallots can be a sweet alternative if you prefer. • Garlic (3 cloves) – Enhances the aroma and taste; garlic powder works in a pinch if you’re low on fresh. For the Sauce • Italian Seasoning (1 tbsp) – Infuses the dish with herby goodness; dried oregano makes a fine substitute. • Cream (1.5 cups) – Key for the creamy texture; for a vegan version, use cashew cream or coconut milk instead. • Tomato Sauce (1 cup) – The base of the sauce providing acidity; try crushed tomatoes for an added twist. • Cheddar Cheese (1/2 cup, shredded) – Adds richness to the final dish; substitute with vegan cheese for a dairy-free option. Feel free to mix and match these ingredients to create your very own comforting bowl of Creamy Beef and Shells that everyone in the family will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Beef and Shells Step 1: Cook Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the medium pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, ensuring it retains a little firmness to hold its shape in the creamy sauce. Step 2: Prepare Beef Mixture In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked through, which takes about 5–7 minutes. Step 3: Add Sauce Reduce the heat to low and stir in the tomato sauce, cream, and Italian seasoning into the browned beef mixture. Cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce is heated through and begins to bubble slightly, creating a rich aroma that fills your kitchen. Step 4: Combine Carefully fold the cooked pasta shells into the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Gently stir to ensure each shell is beautifully coated in the luscious sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together. This should take about 2–3 minutes; you’ll want to see the pasta well combined and warmed through. Step 5: Finish with Cheese Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the creamy beef and shells in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2–3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and create a deliciously gooey topping. The Creamy Beef and Shells are now ready to be served and enjoyed! How to Store and Freeze Creamy Beef and Shells Fridge: Store leftover Creamy Beef and Shells in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to restore creaminess. Freezer: Freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months. Ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. Thawing: To use frozen Creamy Beef and Shells, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight before reheating. Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave; add a little water or cream to revive the sauce’s texture. What to Serve with Creamy Beef and Shells A cozy dinner deserves delightful companions to enhance the flavors and experience of your meal. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, its buttery texture adds a savory crunch that pairs beautifully with pasta. Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich dish, balancing flavors and textures. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli not only adds color but also provides a nutritious element. Its slight crunch offers a nice contrast to the creamy shells. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, such as carrots and zucchini, bring out the sweetness and pair nicely with the dish’s savory profile. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad, with its creamy dressing and crunchy croutons, complements the pasta’s flavors while adding a classic, comforting touch. Cheesy Garlic Knots: These fluffy delights bring a fun twist to your meal. Their buttery, garlicky essence pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of the beef and shells. Wine Pairing: A robust red wine, like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, elevates the dinner experience, enhancing the flavors of the beef in the dish. Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet finale, a rich chocolate mousse brings a luscious contrast after the savory meal, rounding off the dinner perfectly. Make Ahead Options Preparing Creamy Beef and Shells ahead of time is a real game-changer for busy weeknights! You can cook the pasta and prepare the beef mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just let them cool before refrigerating in separate airtight containers. To maintain the quality, slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t get mushy when reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy, combine the beef mixture and pasta in a skillet, add the sauce, and heat gently for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce is bubbling. Top with cheese and let it melt for that creamy, comforting finish. This way, you’ll have a warm, delicious meal ready in no time! Expert Tips for Creamy Beef and Shells • Perfect Pasta Timing: Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente to hold its shape in the creamy sauce. • Flavor Boost: For richer flavors, sauté mushrooms with onions and garlic before adding the beef to your Creamy Beef and Shells. • Leftover Storage: Store extras in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 3-5 days, ensuring that the creaminess is maintained. • Easy Variations: Interested in a vegan option? Substitute ground beef with lentils or tofu and use cashew cream or coconut milk for the sauce. • Additional Vegetables: Consider incorporating sautéed spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color in your dish! Creamy Beef and Shells Variations Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your taste buds! You can easily switch things up to create your own delightful twist. Vegan Swap: Replace ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu, and use cashew cream or coconut milk for a delicious dairy-free option. The result is still rich and satisfying without compromising on flavor. Cheesy Delight: Stir in an extra layer of your favorite cheese, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for an indulgent finish. This will elevate the creaminess and make each bite even more delightful. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a touch of heat. This twist brings a warm glow, making your Creamy Beef and Shells exciting and bold! Vegetable Medley: Toss in sautéed zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. It’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies while keeping the hearty essence of the dish. Whole Wheat Pasta: Opt for whole wheat pasta shells to introduce extra fiber into your meal. This simple swap enhances the health factor while adding a wonderful nutty flavor. Herb Garden: Freshen up the dish with a handful of chopped parsley or basil just before serving. The bright herbs provide a fragrant finish, making each bite truly special. Creamy Mushroom Bliss: Sauté mushrooms along with your onions and garlic for added umami flavor, creating a wonderfully earthy and comforting dish. This variation might even remind you of a gourmet restaurant meal! Whether it’s a quick meal on a weeknight or a cozy dish on a leisurely weekend, customize your Creamy Beef and Shells to capture your family’s tastes and enjoy every comforting bite! For more comforting variations, consider trying dishes like Mexican Ground Beef or cozy Cheesy Beef Chimichangas. Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right pasta for Creamy Beef and Shells? Absolutely! Medium pasta shells are perfect for holding the creamy sauce. If you can’t find them, macaroni or penne are fantastic substitutes. Just ensure they’re similar in size so they cook evenly and blend well with the beef mixture. How should I store leftover Creamy Beef and Shells? For best results, refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days. This will keep your dish fresh and flavorful. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop while adding a splash of cream or water to restore that luscious creaminess. Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells? Very! To freeze, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, sealing them tightly to avoid freezer burn. It can last for up to 2–3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply transfer the dish to the fridge to thaw overnight, then warm it on the stove, adding a little liquid as needed to bring back the creaminess. What if my pasta is overcooked? If you accidentally overcook the pasta, don’t despair! This can happen to the best of us. A tip is to add it to the sauce as soon as it’s just al dente to avoid further cooking. Additionally, you can mix in some finely chopped fresh herbs or a little extra cheese while reheating to add back moisture and flavor. Is there a vegan alternative for Creamy Beef and Shells? Absolutely! For a delicious vegan twist, replace the ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu for protein. You can also use cashew cream or coconut milk in place of traditional cream, and don’t forget to swap the cheese for a plant-based alternative to keep it creamy and satisfying! Are there any allergy considerations with Creamy Beef and Shells? Yes, definitely! If you’re catering to allergies, ensure to check labels on your ingredients, especially cream and cheese, as they may contain lactose or hidden allergens. For gluten-free options, choose gluten-free pasta, and for dairy-free, swap regular cream and cheese with plant-based versions to accommodate those dietary needs. Comforting Creamy Beef and Shells for Quick Weeknight Dinners No ratings yet This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a quick, delicious dinner option that combines savory ground beef and pasta in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 500 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 ounces Medium Pasta Shells or elbow macaroni for a twistFor the Beef Mixture1 pound Ground Beef or ground turkey for a lighter option1/2 medium Onion or shallots as a sweet alternative3 cloves Garlic or garlic powder if unavailableFor the Sauce1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning or dried oregano as a substitute1.5 cups Cream or cashew cream/coconut milk for vegan1 cup Tomato Sauce or crushed tomatoes for added twist1/2 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded; substitute with vegan cheese for dairy-free Equipment large potLarge skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the medium pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.Reduce the heat to low and stir in the tomato sauce, cream, and Italian seasoning into the browned beef mixture. Cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients.Carefully fold the cooked pasta shells into the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Gently stir to ensure each shell is beautifully coated in the luscious sauce, allowing the flavors to meld together. This should take about 2–3 minutes.Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the creamy beef and shells in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2–3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 34gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
