There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of Creamy Beef and Shells to bring a little joy to your dinner table. This dish is the perfect balance of hearty ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a luscious, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite. The richness of the marinara combined with the smoothness of the heavy cream creates a depth of flavor that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
What makes this recipe even better is how quick and easy it is to prepare. In just 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal that’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner option, a quick weeknight meal, or just a dish that feels like a warm hug, this Creamy Beef and Shells will never disappoint!
Full Recipe:
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small sweet onion, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 (15 oz) can marinara sauce
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly grated
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned (3-5 minutes). Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir for 1 minute until lightly browned.
- Gradually whisk in beef stock, stirring constantly. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, dried parsley, oregano, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 6-8 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in cooked pasta and ground beef.
- Add heavy cream, salt, and pepper, stirring until combined and heated through.
- Mix in sour cream, then fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Creamy Beef and Shells: A Comforting and Flavorful Pasta Dish
When it comes to easy, satisfying, and delicious meals, Creamy Beef and Shells stands out as a top contender. This dish brings together tender pasta shells, rich ground beef, and a luscious, cheesy sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience. It’s quick to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and loved by both kids and adults. If you’re looking for a hearty meal that feels indulgent yet simple, this recipe is the perfect addition to your collection.
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
One of the best things about Creamy Beef and Shells is its universal appeal. It combines flavors and textures that are familiar and comforting, making it an instant hit with families. The creamy sauce coats every piece of pasta, while the ground beef adds a rich, meaty bite. The combination of marinara sauce, cheese, and seasonings creates a depth of flavor that makes every spoonful incredibly satisfying.
Another reason this dish is a staple in many households is its versatility. You can customize the ingredients to fit your preferences or dietary needs, making it an excellent option for anyone looking to switch things up while still enjoying a classic dish.
The Secret to the Perfect Creamy Sauce
The creamy sauce in this recipe is what makes it truly special. Instead of relying solely on cheese, this dish incorporates a combination of heavy cream, sour cream, and freshly shredded cheddar cheese to create a smooth and velvety texture. The heavy cream adds richness, the sour cream brings a slight tanginess that balances the flavors, and the cheddar cheese melts into the sauce for that irresistible cheesiness.
Additionally, a bit of beef stock and marinara sauce are used to enhance the flavor and add a slight acidity, which prevents the dish from becoming overly heavy. The result is a well-balanced sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta and beef, making every bite as delicious as the last.
Best Pasta for Creamy Beef and Shells
The shape of the pasta plays an important role in this recipe. Medium-sized pasta shells are ideal because their hollow shape allows them to capture the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying. However, if you don’t have shells on hand, other pasta options such as cavatappi, rigatoni, penne, or elbow macaroni can work just as well.
The key is to cook the pasta al dente so that it holds its shape and texture even after being mixed with the sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, which can take away from the overall experience of the dish.
Tips for the Best Flavor
Use Freshly Grated Cheese
While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Using freshly grated cheddar cheese ensures that the sauce remains creamy and velvety without any graininess.
Brown the Beef Properly
To get the best flavor out of the ground beef, make sure to brown it well before adding any other ingredients. This step enhances the meaty flavor and adds a slightly caramelized depth to the dish. Draining excess fat after cooking the beef also ensures the sauce doesn’t become too greasy.
Let the Sauce Thicken
Simmering the sauce for a few extra minutes helps it develop a richer flavor. The combination of marinara sauce, beef stock, and seasonings needs time to blend together, creating a more cohesive taste. Letting the sauce thicken slightly before adding the pasta ensures a silky texture rather than a runny consistency.
Adjust the Seasoning
Since different brands of marinara sauce have varying levels of salt and sweetness, it’s important to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adding a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can help balance the flavors.
How to Make This Dish Even More Special
One of the greatest things about Creamy Beef and Shells is that you can modify it to suit your taste. Here are a few variations to try:
- Add Vegetables: To boost the nutrition, consider adding mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the dish. Sautéing these vegetables along with the onions will enhance the overall flavor.
- Swap the Meat: While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or Italian sausage for a different taste profile.
- Make it Spicy: If you love a little heat, try adding red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. This will give the dish an extra kick without overpowering the creamy texture.
- Use Different Cheeses: While cheddar cheese is commonly used, mixing in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan can give the dish a unique twist.
- Go Gluten-Free: Simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free version and use gluten-free flour in place of the all-purpose flour to make this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Pairing Suggestions
Creamy Beef and Shells is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a side dish can make your dinner even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to serve alongside this dish:
- Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh Caesar salad, garden salad, or arugula salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try serving with oven-roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
- Soup Starter: A bowl of tomato basil soup or cream of mushroom soup pairs beautifully with this pasta.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
This dish is great for meal prep and reheats well, making it a convenient option for busy schedules. To store leftovers:
- Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce over time, so you may need to add a splash of heavy cream or beef stock when reheating.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding a little liquid to bring back the creaminess.
- Reheat: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even heating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Comforting & Satisfying: The creamy, cheesy sauce and hearty beef make it the ultimate comfort food.
- Versatile: Can be customized with different meats, cheeses, or add-ins.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
- Great for Leftovers: Stores well and tastes just as good the next day.
Conclusion
Creamy Beef and Shells is more than just a pasta dish—it’s a warm, comforting meal that brings people together. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for an easy yet satisfying dinner, this dish checks all the boxes. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.