Creamy Beef and Shells

Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make meal that will please the whole family? This Creamy Beef and Shells dish is just what you need! It combines tender pasta shells with a rich, creamy beef sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The perfect combination of hearty beef, creamy cheese, and seasonings makes this dish a weeknight favorite that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal everyone will love!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 12 oz pasta shells
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
• Instructions:
  1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the beef: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Build the sauce: Add the drained diced tomatoes, beef broth, heavy cream, sour cream, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  5. Add the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, stirring to coat the pasta with the creamy beef sauce.
  7. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
  8. Tips:
     • Feel free to add in some vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, for added flavor and nutrition.
     • For extra richness, you can use half-and-half or full-fat cream instead of heavy cream.
     • If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.

     This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your household. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!