Creamy Beef And Shells Recipe

There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of creamy beef and shells after a long day. The combination of tender pasta shells, rich and savory ground beef, and a luscious, cheesy sauce makes this dish an instant favorite for the whole family.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe on a hectic weeknight when I needed something quick, filling, and satisfying. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, it came together beautifully—and now, it’s a regular request in our household.

Get ready to add this creamy beef and shells recipe to your dinner rotation because once you try it, there’s no going back!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Beef And Shells

This recipe is the ultimate comfort food, packed with flavor and creamy goodness. Whether you're cooking for picky eaters or just need a quick meal that satisfies, this dish has you covered.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just one pan and about 30 minutes, you’ll have a homemade meal that tastes like it took all day to prepare.

It’s also budget-friendly. Simple, everyday ingredients like ground beef, pasta shells, and cheese come together to create a hearty dish without breaking the bank.

The creamy, cheesy sauce is absolutely irresistible. A blend of heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and a touch of tomato sauce creates the perfect balance of richness and tangy depth.

Best of all, it’s customizable. Whether you want to sneak in some veggies, swap proteins, or spice it up with extra seasoning, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences.

Once you try it, you'll see why this creamy beef and shells recipe is a staple in so many households.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet well-balanced ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating that signature creamy, savory flavor.

Pasta shells are the perfect choice for this dish. Their curved shape holds onto the sauce, ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful. If you don’t have shells on hand, penne or rotini make great substitutes.

Ground beef provides the hearty, meaty base of the dish. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and tenderness. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead.

Tomato sauce and beef broth create a deep, savory foundation. The acidity of the tomato sauce cuts through the richness of the cheese, while the beef broth enhances the overall umami flavor.

Heavy cream and cheddar cheese bring the luxurious creaminess that makes this dish so special. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick and rich.

Seasonings like garlic, onion powder, and Italian seasoning add the perfect touch of warmth and depth. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also be added if you love a little heat.

For best results, you’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan to cook everything evenly. A wooden spoon or spatula will also come in handy for stirring and breaking up the beef.

How To Make This Creamy Beef And Shells

Making this dish is a breeze, and you’ll be surprised by how quickly it comes together. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by cooking your pasta shells according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water generously—it enhances the flavor of the pasta. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.

Next, add the minced garlic and seasonings. Stir well and let the garlic cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Let this simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of extra broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Finally, add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy beef sauce. Let it simmer for another minute to ensure everything is well combined and heated through.

In just about 30 minutes, your creamy beef and shells are ready to be served! The sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools, making every bite even more delicious.

Storage Options

This dish is just as good the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

For refrigeration, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

If you’d like to freeze it, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this creamy beef and shells recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few fun variations to try.

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to cut down on fat.

To add some veggies, toss in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. They blend seamlessly into the sauce while adding extra nutrients.

If you like a spicy kick, try stirring in a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a bolder flavor.

For a richer sauce, mix in a spoonful of cream cheese or mascarpone. This makes the dish even more indulgent and velvety.

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own. No matter how you customize it, creamy beef and shells is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser every time!

Print