Creamy Beef and Shells: A Hearty Meal in No Time

If you’re looking for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious, Creamy Beef and Shells is the perfect choice. This dish brings together tender pasta, savory beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce that will warm you up from the inside out. It’s a quick, family-friendly dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground beef: The star of the dish. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take.
• Pasta shells: The larger shell pasta captures all the creamy sauce, making every bite irresistible.
• Heavy cream: For that luxurious, silky texture in the sauce.
• Cheese: A mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan works wonders, but feel free to get creative with your favorite cheeses.
• Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps create a smooth base.
• Flour: Used to thicken the sauce and give it that creamy consistency.
• Garlic: A bit of garlic enhances the flavor of the beef and sauce.
• Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning elevate the dish, while a dash of paprika adds warmth.

Cooking Instructions

Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, and cook until browned and fully crumbled. Drain any excess fat. For extra flavor, toss in a minced garlic clove or two toward the end of cooking.

Prepare the Pasta: While the beef cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet you used for the beef, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in a tablespoon of flour, stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and golden. Slowly add the heavy cream while whisking to prevent any lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens. Once it’s creamy and smooth, stir in your shredded cheese and season with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.

Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta shells and browned beef back into the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated in that creamy, cheesy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, a splash of milk or broth will loosen it up.

Tips for Success

• Smooth Sauce: To avoid any lumps, make sure to whisk the flour and cream together slowly and constantly. If you notice any clumps, keep stirring or use a hand blender to smooth things out.
• Extra Veggies: Sneak in some veggies by adding spinach, peas, or mushrooms to the beef mixture as it cooks.
• Cheese Variations: Try using Gouda, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for a twist on the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette makes the perfect side dish to balance out the richness of this meal.
• Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up every bit of creamy goodness.
• Roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots add a nice, crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers are a win! Store any remaining creamy beef and shells in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is one of those dishes that’s guaranteed to make everyone at the table smile. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect meal to whip up on busy nights. Try it out, and enjoy the cozy vibes that come with every bite!

FAQs

Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can make the beef and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just add the pasta and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What’s the best pasta to use?
Medium pasta shells work best because they capture the sauce, but you can also use penne or rotini if you prefer.

Can I use dairy alternatives?
Definitely! You can swap heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream, and use plant-based cheese to make this dish dairy-free.