Make this simple Creamy Beef and Shells recipe as a one-pan easy dinner that’s like hamburger helper but much tastier. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you’re craving comfort food. The creamy texture and savory flavors make it a standout meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, this meal fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one skillet, making it easier to enjoy your meal without the stress of washing multiple dishes.
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of beef, cheese, and cream creates a deliciously satisfying dish that rivals any takeout option.
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with vegetables or different cheeses based on what you have on hand.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious Creamy Beef and Shells recipe, gather the essential tools that will make cooking a breeze.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks thoroughly.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing beef and combining ingredients, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully.
Ingredients
Make this simple creamy beef and shells recipe as a one-pan easy dinner that’s like the hamburger helper but much tastier.
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef stock
For the Creamy Sauce
- 15 ounce can tomato sauce
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, about 1½ cups)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain well once cooked.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 3 to 5 minutes, crumbling as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
Add diced onion to the skillet. Cook while stirring frequently until translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, paprika, and mustard powder. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Incorporate Flour
Whisk in flour for about 1 minute until lightly browned. This will help thicken your sauce later on.
Step 6: Create the Sauce Base
Gradually whisk in beef stock and tomato sauce. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Stir occasionally until reduced slightly and thickened, approximately 6 to 8 minutes.
Step 7: Combine Ingredients
Stir in cooked pasta, reserved beef, and heavy cream. Heat through until everything is warmed nicely.
Step 8: Melt the Cheese
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 9: Serve Warm
Serve your creamy beef and shells warm. Enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends!
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells
Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, here are some serving suggestions.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
- Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil enhances the Italian seasoning in the dish.
Pair with a Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the richness of the beef and shells.
- Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides freshness and crunch.
Add Some Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are great for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Serve with Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and balances out the meal.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a delightful contrast to the savory dish.
How to Perfect Creamy Beef and Shells
To make your Creamy Beef and Shells even better, here are some helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier dish while maintaining flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish before serving; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
- Add More Cheese: For an extra cheesy experience, mix in additional shredded cheese just before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Beef and Shells
To complement your Creamy Beef and Shells, consider these side dishes. They enhance flavors and add variety to your meal.
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with creamy dishes.
- Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing balances the richness of the beef.
- Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add color and nutrients.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds texture and a refreshing bite.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a fun twist to your dinner plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Creamy Beef and Shells, it’s easy to make simple mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to avoid them.
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your beef properly can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure you season adequately during the cooking process.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long, it can become mushy in the final dish. Follow package instructions closely for al dente pasta.
- Not draining excess fat: Leaving too much grease from the beef can make your dish greasy. Always drain the fat after browning the meat.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap cheese or stock can impact flavor. Choose high-quality ingredients for a richer taste in your creamy beef and shells.
- Rushing the simmering step: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps develop flavors. Don’t rush this process; let it thicken naturally.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Beef and Shells
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Creamy Beef and Shells
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15–20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of beef stock or cream if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making creamy beef and shells.
How can I customize my Creamy Beef and Shells?
You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While medium pasta shells work great, feel free to experiment with other shapes like macaroni or fusilli.
What should I serve with Creamy Beef and Shells?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and check that your beef stock is also gluten-free!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is not only quick and easy, but it also delivers comfort food at its finest. It’s perfect for busy weeknights yet versatile enough for customization, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients. Give this delightful dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Creamy Beef and Shells
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Creamy Beef and Shells, a delightful one-pan dish that takes just 25 minutes to prepare. This recipe combines tender pasta shells with savory ground beef, rich cheddar cheese, and creamy sauce for a meal that rivals your favorite takeout. Perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings, this easy-to-make dinner is sure to please everyone at the table. With only one skillet to clean up afterward, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time doing dishes. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or cheeses to make it uniquely yours!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 15 ounce can tomato sauce
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions; drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef.
- Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, then stir in minced garlic and seasonings.
- Whisk in flour before adding beef stock and tomato sauce; simmer until thickened.
- Stir in cooked pasta, reserved beef, heavy cream, and shredded cheese until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
