Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta shells; 1/2 lb ground beef; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheese; Salt and pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; Fresh parsley (optional)

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Creamy Beef & Shell Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender pasta shells coated in a rich, creamy sauce with savory ground beef. This family-friendly recipe is a satisfying one-pot meal that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish combines the savory depth of seasoned beef with the silky richness of a creamy cheese sauce. The shell pasta perfectly captures the sauce in each bite, creating a delicious and cohesive flavor experience. It is a filling, warming dish that is both simple and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pasta shells
Ground beef
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream or milk
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Beef broth or water
Salt and black pepper
Butter or oil for cooking
Optional: paprika, Italian seasoning, parsley for garnish

Directions

Cook the Pasta: Boil shell pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat butter or oil. Sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
Add Seasoning: Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika or Italian herbs.
Create the Sauce: Stir in beef broth and let it simmer for a few minutes. Reduce heat and add cream, mixing until well combined.
Add Cheese: Stir in shredded cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until shells are evenly coated.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for more vegetables
Swap the cheese for gouda or pepper jack for a flavor twist
Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or hot sauce
Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture. Not recommended for freezing due to the cream-based sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rotini, or macaroni also work well with this sauce.

Can I make it without cream?

You can substitute with milk and a little flour for thickening, though the result will be less rich.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack melt well and provide a smooth texture.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s mild and creamy, making it appealing to children.

Can I prepare it in advance?

Yes, cook the pasta and beef mixture separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It is not ideal for freezing due to the cream sauce, which may separate upon reheating.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook it al dente and avoid overcooking when combining with the sauce.

Can I make this in one pot?

Yes, cook the beef and sauce in a large skillet, then add the pasta directly if already cooked.

What herbs can I add for more flavor?

Try thyme, basil, or a pinch of nutmeg for added depth.

Can I use plant-based beef?

Yes, substitute with your favorite plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef & Shell Pasta is a delicious and comforting meal that combines simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe is adaptable, quick to prepare, and sure to please the entire family.

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Author: Mariem
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Creamy Beef & Shell Pasta is a rich, savory dinner made with tender pasta shells smothered in a cheesy beef sauce. Comfort food perfection in just 30 minutes!