Go Back
–+ servings
Creamy Beef and Shells

Savor the Comfort of Creamy Beef and Shells Tonight

Creamy Beef and Shells are a comforting dish that brings nostalgia with every bite, perfect for busy weeknights.
Print Pin
Course: Main Dishes
Cuisine: American
Keyword: comfort food, Creamy Beef and Shells, family-friendly, Hearty Dinner, pasta, Quick Meal
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 500kcal

Equipment

  • large skillet

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

  • 1 pound ground beef a hearty base for your creamy dish
  • 1 small onion, diced adds sweetness and depth to the flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced infuses the dish with aromatic goodness
  • 1 teaspoon salt enhances all the flavors in the recipe
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper gives a gentle kick to balance the creaminess
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning introduces a blend of herbs that elevate the taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 cups beef broth provides richness and depth while cooking
  • 1 15 oz can tomato sauce adds a velvety texture and tanginess to complement the beef

For the Pasta & Cream

  • 2 ½ cups medium pasta shells perfectly capture the creamy sauce in every bite
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully, adding a delightful cheesiness
  • ½ cup heavy cream brings a luxurious creaminess to the dish

For Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and no longer pink, stirring occasionally.
  • Next, incorporate 1 diced small onion and 3 minced garlic cloves into the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
  • Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning to the beef mixture. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
  • Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and one 15 oz can of tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  • Add 2 ½ cups of medium pasta shells carefully into the skillet, ensuring they are fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and bring the mixture back to a simmer for approximately 10-12 minutes.
  • Once the pasta is tender, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s completely melted and creamy.
  • Slowly pour in ½ cup of heavy cream, stirring it in to combine thoroughly. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  • Garnish your Creamy Beef and Shells with freshly chopped parsley for a delightful pop of color. Serve warm.

Notes

Use lean ground beef for a deliciously tender result. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 500kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 80mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 500IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 200mg | Iron: 3mg