Craving a hearty meal that’s both creamy and satisfying? This creamy beef and shells recipe is just what you need! With tender beef, perfectly cooked pasta shells, and a luscious sauce, this dish brings comfort to the dinner table. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a deliciously creamy experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 8 ounces medium pasta shells
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 540
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 36g
– Fat: 34g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
5. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
6. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Add heavy cream, stirring until well combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
10. Drain pasta and combine with the beef mixture.
11. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and cheese. Gluten-free pasta shells can also be used to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy beef and shells dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to restore creaminess. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
– Avoid high heat when cooking the beef to prevent burning.
– Don’t skip draining excess fat for a less greasy dish.
– Ensure the cream is added slowly to prevent curdling.
– Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
– Experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.
– Make it a one-pot meal by cooking pasta directly in the beef mixture.
– Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you enjoy will work, but shell pasta holds the sauce beautifully.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
What can I serve with creamy beef and shells?
This dish pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This creamy beef and shells recipe is a delightful way to bring comfort food to your table. It’s rich, satisfying, and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any night of the week. Gather your loved ones and enjoy this delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Creamy Beef And Shells Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add heavy cream, stirring until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook pasta shells according to package instructions.
- Drain pasta and combine with the beef mixture.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
