Description

Creamy Beef and Shells is a quick and comforting pasta dish made with ground beef, cheddar cheese, and pasta shells in a rich creamy sauce. A perfect family dinner that’s budget-friendly and full of flavor. Great for weeknight meals, easy dinner ideas, or comfort food cravings.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

8 ounces medium pasta shells

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 cup beef broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

½ teaspoon paprika (optional)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

4. Mix in tomato paste and cook for one minute. Pour in beef broth and stir to combine, scraping the skillet to deglaze.

5. Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and let it gently simmer. Add shredded cheddar and stir until melted and smooth.

6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and mix until evenly coated. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices. Serve warm.

Notes

Let the sauce thicken slightly before adding the pasta for better texture.

Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melt and flavor.

Adjust the consistency with a splash of broth when reheating leftovers.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 620
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 120mg