Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting, rich, and easy-to-make dish that combines ground beef with pasta in a creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or anytime you want something hearty and satisfying. Here’s a simple recipe for making it:
Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking the beef)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, for a bit of texture and acidity)
- 1 (8 oz) package of pasta shells
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta:
- Start by cooking the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water for extra flavor. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
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Cook the Ground Beef:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
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Add Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Add the beef broth and canned diced tomatoes (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
- Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
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Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta shells into the skillet with the creamy beef mixture. Stir until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce and the cheese to melt.
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Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the dish and add salt and pepper to your preference.
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Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve hot!
Optional Variations:
- Veggies: You can add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for added veggies and flavor.
- Cheese: Try adding shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese for an extra creamy, cheesy dish.
- Spicy: For a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Enjoy!
This Creamy Beef and Shells is rich, comforting, and perfect for a family-friendly meal that comes together quickly. It’s a great way to enjoy a creamy pasta dish without too much fuss!