If you are craving a comforting and satisfying meal that brings together rich flavors and hearty textures, look no further than this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe. Imagine tender pasta shells enveloped in a luscious sauce made from ground beef, a blend of savory tomato and beef stock, and a generous splash of creamy goodness. Every bite offers a warm, cheesy hug that’s perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort. This dish is truly a crowd-pleaser that feels like a special treat without any fuss.

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Creamy Beef and Shells lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From savory ground beef to sharp cheddar cheese, these essentials come together beautifully to create a heartwarming dish.

8 ounces medium pasta shells: The perfect shape to hold every bit of the creamy sauce and beef mixture.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing the beef and onions.
1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and savory flavor.
1/2 medium sweet onion (diced): Brings subtle sweetness and depth when cooked down.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Offers a fragrant kick that brightens the dish.
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses an earthy, aromatic touch.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce into a silky texture.
2 cups beef stock: Enhances umami and enriches the base of the sauce.
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Adds a tangy, vibrant layer of flavor and beautiful color.
3/4 cup heavy cream: Creates that luxurious creaminess that makes this dish irresistible.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Essential for balancing and amplifying all the flavors.
6 ounces shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 1/2 cups): Melts into the sauce for a bold, cheesy finish.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the medium pasta shells in salted water according to package directions until they are perfectly tender yet still hold their shape. Once cooked, drain the pasta well to prevent extra moisture in the sauce, which keeps the final dish creamy and not watery.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large cast iron skillet, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until nicely browned, making sure to crumble it up so you get that lovely texture throughout the dish. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the sauce from becoming greasy and too heavy.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Next, add the diced sweet onion to the skillet, cooking and stirring them until translucent and tender, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, letting their aromas fill your kitchen as they cook for about one minute—this mix is key for layering savory notes throughout the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Sauce Base

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and whisk it in, cooking until lightly browned. This step thickens the sauce, giving it that cozy, spoon-worthy consistency. Gradually pour in the beef stock and tomato sauce while whisking continuously to avoid lumps, then bring to a boil before reducing to a simmer. Let it cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Melt Cheese

Stir the cooked pasta, browned beef, and heavy cream into the simmering sauce. Let everything heat through together—this is where the magic happens, and the sauce really clings to every pasta shell. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Finally, fold in the shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s melted and richly incorporated, rounding out the Creamy Beef and Shells with an irresistible cheesy finish.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells

Garnishes

Elevate your Creamy Beef and Shells by topping it with fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of green and a touch of herbal brightness. A sprinkle of extra sharp cheddar or even a dash of red pepper flakes can add welcome heat or cheesiness, making the dish even more exciting.

Side Dishes

This rich, hearty pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette also makes a delightful companion, perfect for sopping up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try baking the Creamy Beef and Shells in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish. Alternatively, spoon it into individual ramekins and broil just until golden on top for an elegant single-serving presentation perfect for dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Creamy Beef and Shells keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors develop even more overnight, making it a great option for easy next-day meals.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this comforting dish later, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly after thawing, but reheating gently can help bring it back together.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the Creamy Beef and Shells in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or beef stock if the sauce seems too thick. You can also microwave leftovers in short bursts, stirring between each, to ensure it’s heated evenly without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Creamy Beef and Shells?

Absolutely! While medium pasta shells are ideal for catching the sauce, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni without losing the delicious essence of the dish.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk thickened with a bit of flour, but keep in mind the sauce may be less rich and creamy. Greek yogurt can also be stirred in at the end for a tangy twist.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Just be sure to check that your beef stock and tomato sauce are also gluten-free.

How can I add more vegetables to Creamy Beef and Shells?

Feel free to add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach along with the onions. They’ll add color, texture, and extra nutrition to the dish without overpowering the comforting flavor.

Is Creamy Beef and Shells suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! This dish reheats wonderfully and makes for a hearty, fuss-free lunch or dinner throughout the week. Store portions in airtight containers and reheat as needed for a quick and delicious meal.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a bowl of Creamy Beef and Shells that warms you from the inside out. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to share with friends and family. I hope you give this recipe a try and make it a regular in your home cooking rotation because comfort food doesn’t get much better than this creamy, cheesy, beefy delight.

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 6 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting pasta dish featuring tender medium pasta shells combined with savory ground beef in a rich tomato and beef stock sauce, enhanced by the creaminess of heavy cream and the sharp flavor of melted cheddar cheese. This hearty skillet meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a delicious balance of textures and flavors in a quick and easy recipe.

Instructions

Cook Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the medium pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente; then drain well and set aside.
Brown Beef: Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, breaking up the meat into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and remove beef from the skillet; set aside.
Sauté Onion: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook, stirring frequently, until it becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Make Roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook until it lightly browns, about 1 minute, to form a roux that will thicken the sauce.
Add Liquids and Simmer: Gradually whisk in the beef stock and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and thickens slightly, about 6-8 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked pasta, browned beef, and heavy cream until heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Melt Cheese and Serve: Stir in the shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed, about 2 minutes. Serve the creamy beef and shells immediately while hot.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
Using extra-sharp cheddar cheese adds bold flavor; you can also try a blend of mozzarella and cheddar.
If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil for added freshness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent cheese from separating.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Skillet Cooking and Boiling
Cuisine: American