Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dish that’s sure to warm your soul and please your taste buds—Creamy Beef and Shells! This recipe brings together hearty ground beef and tender shell pasta, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish is a comforting and flavorful family favorite that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces medium shell pasta
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked, stirring to break it apart. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to ensure a rich flavor without greasiness.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion becomes soft and translucent, releasing a delightful aroma.
- While the beef mixture simmers, cook the shell pasta according to the package instructions; drain and set aside for later use.
- Stir in the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, and sour cream into the beef mixture. Mix everything together until well combined and heated through, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Gently fold in the cooked pasta and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring each shell is coated in the rich sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to meld beautifully.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it melt into the creamy goodness.
- Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and added freshness.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this dish by adding in your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for an extra nutritious boost. This recipe also makes for great leftovers, and the flavors get even better as they sit! For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
Cooking Techniques
The key to achieving a rich flavor in this dish is properly browning the beef and allowing the ingredients to simmer together. This process not only enhances the taste but also melds the creamy sauce beautifully with the pasta. Remember to always taste as you go to ensure perfect seasoning!
FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Add the pasta just before serving to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat.
Conclusion
Creamy Beef and Shells is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate! With its delightful flavors and comforting texture, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. Simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough to impress your guests, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy goodness with your loved ones, and watch as they savor every bite!