Creamy Beef and Shells

The moment I first tried Creamy Beef and Shells, I knew it was going to be a family favorite. We had just come home after a long day, and the thought of preparing a gourmet meal seemed daunting. But as I peeled back the layers of this dish, I discovered it was anything but complicated. Creamy Beef and Shells combines rich flavors and comforting textures that wrap you in warmth with each bite. It’s the kind of meal that fills your home with delightful aromas, making everyone eager to gather around the table. I still remember my kids’ faces lighting up as they took their first bites, blissfully satisfied with the creamy goodness. This dish reminds me that comfort food doesn’t have to be boring or overly complicated; it can be a joyous celebration of flavors that brings us together.

Creamy Beef and Shells Ingredients

The ingredients in Creamy Beef and Shells work harmoniously together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. The key players here are the tender pasta, juicy beef, and rich sauces that combine to elevate this recipe from simple to spectacular. Each ingredient adds its unique touch, making every bite a delight.

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small sweet onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 (15 oz can) marinara sauce
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly grated

Cooking Method for Creamy Beef and Shells

Cooking Creamy Beef and Shells is as easy as pie, and the steps will guide you to a satisfying meal. Each phase builds layers of flavor, resulting in a dish that’s impressively rich yet simple. I love how the aroma fills my kitchen, making it feel like a warm embrace.

1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water. Once it’s al dente, drain it well and set it aside. The key is to not overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
2. Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and start breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
3. In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until it starts to become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook until you can smell its fragrant aroma, around 1 minute.
4. Now, it’s time to whisk in the flour. Stir continuously for about 1 minute, allowing it to get slightly browned. This will help to thicken our sauce.
5. Gradually whisk in the beef stock while mixing to combine, ensuring there are no lumps. Then, add the marinara sauce along with the Italian seasoning, dried parsley, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally as it thickens, about 6 to 8 minutes. This is where the flavors meld beautifully together, creating a savory base.
7. After simmering, gently stir in your cooked pasta along with the reserved beef. Mix it well, allowing the pasta to soak up all those wonderful flavors.
8. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir until heated through, which will take about 1 to 2 minutes. Taste it at this point and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
9. Now, add the sour cream into the mixture, stirring gently to combine. This will add a nice tang to the dish.
10. Finally, fold in the freshly grated cheddar cheese until it’s melted and integrated into the mix, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Serve it immediately, garnished with some parsley if you wish.

Expert Tips about Creamy Beef and Shells

When it comes to making Creamy Beef and Shells, I have gathered some insider tips that can elevate your dish to new heights. Each tip is designed to help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or the microwave, adding a splash of beef stock if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can freeze it after cooking. Just make sure to allow it to cool before packing it into a suitable container. It can be kept frozen for up to two months.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You could also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
• Herb enhancement: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme added at the end of cooking can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Cheese choices: Feel free to mix up the cheese. Mozzarella or an Italian blend can provide a delicious twist!

What to Serve Alongside Creamy Beef and Shells

When planning your meal, consider what to serve alongside Creamy Beef and Shells to enhance the dining experience. This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides:

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus complement the creaminess of the dish while adding vibrant colors and nutrients.
• Garlic Bread: Nothing beats the classic combination of creamy pasta and warm garlic bread for a cozy meal.
• Simple Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta.
• Seasonal Fruits: For a refreshing contrast, serve some sliced seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches as a side.
• Comforting Soup: A light soup, such as tomato or minestrone, can be a nice starter before diving into the creamy goodness.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a casual date night at home.

FAQ

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is a delightful and comforting dish that combines savory flavors with creamy goodness. It’s a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings, making it a dish everyone will love. I encourage you to give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Creamy Beef and Shells

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Beef and Shells combines tender pasta, savory beef, and creamy sauces for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner. Perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Whisk
• Large Pot
• Saucepan
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small sweet onion
• 5 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 15 oz can marinara sauce
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese freshly grated

Instructions

 

• 1. Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water. Once it's al dente, drain it well and set it aside.
• 2. Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and start breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
• 3. In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until it starts to become translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook until you can smell its fragrant aroma, around 1 minute.
• 4. Now, it's time to whisk in the flour. Stir continuously for about 1 minute, allowing it to get slightly browned.
• 5. Gradually whisk in the beef stock while mixing to combine. Then, add the marinara sauce along with the Italian seasoning, dried parsley, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
• 6. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally as it thickens, about 6 to 8 minutes.
• 7. After simmering, gently stir in your cooked pasta along with the reserved beef. Mix it well, allowing the pasta to soak up all those wonderful flavors.
• 8. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir until heated through, which will take about 1 to 2 minutes. Taste it at this point and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
• 9. Now, add the sour cream into the mixture, stirring gently to combine.
• 10. Finally, fold in the freshly grated cheddar cheese until it’s melted and integrated into the mix. Serve it immediately, garnished with some parsley if you wish.

Notes

• Tip 1: The pasta should be saucy, not dry; add more marinara sauce if needed.
• Tip 2: To prevent the pasta from being soggy, make sure to cook it just al dente so that when you combine it with the sauce, further cooking will not make it too mushy.
• Tip 3: Equally important is to drain the beef grease, just leave in 1 to 2 tablespoons for extra flavor.
• Tip 4: If you add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, remember to saute them with the onion and garlic until tender.

Keyword comfort food recipes, Creamy Beef Pasta, Easy Beef Dinner, Pasta Recipes

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!