Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a cozy, hearty meal to bring a family together, and this Irresistible Creamy Beef and Shells recipe does just that. Packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the ultimate comfort food that even the pickiest eaters will love. Imagine golden brown ground beef mingling with tender pasta shells, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce—it’s a warm hug in a bowl! Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed family dinner, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz medium shells pasta
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (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, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, stirring to crumble the meat. Drain any excess fat, keeping it lean and savory.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft, infusing the dish with delightful aromas.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, along with their juices, the beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all the flavors to mingle.
- Meanwhile, cook the medium shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, ready to absorb all that creamy goodness.
- Once the mixture in the skillet is simmering, stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy and luscious.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Gently toss to mix until the shells are thoroughly coated in that velvety sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the smiles around your dinner table!
Notes or Tips
For a bit of spice, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or a blend of your favorites for a different twist. If you want to sneak in some veggies, feel free to toss in some spinach or bell peppers when sautéing the onions and garlic!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves a few essential cooking techniques: browning meat, sautéing aromatics, and creating a creamy sauce. Browning the beef at the start helps develop a rich flavor base, while sautéing onions and garlic brings out their natural sweetness. Lastly, the combination of heavy cream and cheese creates a decadent, creamy sauce that brings the dish together beautifully.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine them when you’re ready to eat, adding the cream and cheese when reheating.
What if I don’t have shell pasta? You can substitute any pasta shape you like! Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti would work well in this creamy sauce.
Conclusion
This Irresistible Creamy Beef and Shells dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also a true crowd-pleaser. Each bite is filled with rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. So gather your loved ones, indulge in this deliciously creamy pasta, and create some wonderful memories around the dinner table!