It was a busy weeknight. The clock seemed to move fast. I had soccer practice and homework to do.
I needed a meal that would please everyone quickly. That’s when I thought of Creamy Beef and Shells. It’s easy and always a hit.
In just 30 minutes, I can make this comforting meal. It fills the room with a delicious smell.
As the shells boiled and the beef cooked, my stress went away. Soon, a creamy sauce was ready. It was perfect with spices.
This dish is like a warm hug in a plate. It makes my family want more. If you want a comforting dinner, try this recipe.
What is Creamy Beef and Shells?
Creamy Beef and Shells is a tasty dish. It has tender shell pasta and seasoned ground beef. The recipe also has a rich tomato sauce with cream, making it creamy and delicious.
This dish is quick to make, taking about 30 minutes. It’s great for a weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce makes it a comforting meal.
This dish serves at least four people. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. It’s a great choice for busy evenings when you want something special.
Medium pasta shells are best for this dish. They hold the sauce and meat well. The 80/20 ground beef ratio makes it flavorful but not greasy.
I like to add high-quality cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. They make the dish even richer.
Why This Recipe is an Easy Dinner Recipe
This creamy beef and shells recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It takes only 25 minutes to make and feeds six people. It’s easy to prepare with just a few ingredients and simple steps.
It’s great because it doesn’t take a lot of time. You need lean ground beef, pasta shells, and some pantry items. Sautéing onion and garlic with the beef makes it taste amazing.
After cooking the pasta, the dish is ready in under half an hour. It’s perfect for a busy day when everyone wants seconds. This recipe is a stress-free way to enjoy a delicious meal.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Calories per Serving | 677 kcal |
| Storage Refrigerated | 3-4 days |
| Freezing Duration | 1-2 months |
Ingredients for Homemade Creamy Beef Pasta
Making a tasty creamy beef and shells dish starts with the right stuff. This easy dinner recipe needs a mix of basics and tasty extras. It’s all about combining common items with special touches to make the pasta with ground beef a hit.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 pound of lean ground beef
- 8 ounces of medium uncooked pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 small sweet onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder
- 1 (15 oz) can of marinara sauce
- 1 cup of beef stock
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
These ingredients mix to make a creamy sauce. This sauce makes the creamy beef and shells dish a hit with everyone.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
Want to make your creamy beef and shells even better? Try these extra ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
- 1½ cups of grated cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Adding these extras can make the dish even more cozy and tasty. Each ingredient is key to making this creamy pasta with ground beef a memorable meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Creamy Beef and Shells
Making homemade creamy beef pasta is fun. Follow these steps for success. Let’s get started!
- Boil the pasta shells in a big pot as the package says. It takes 15 to 18 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped. Cook until golden, about five minutes.
- Add 1 pound of 85/15 ground beef to the skillet. Break it up as it cooks to brown evenly.
- When the beef is browned, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning. Cook for one minute to mix flavors.
- Pour in one 15-ounce can of tomato sauce and 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth. Simmer for 4 to 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add 1/2 cup of heavy cream warmed to room temperature. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix in the drained pasta shells gently. Make sure the creamy sauce coats the pasta well.
Serve this comforting dish warm. You’ll enjoy the rich, creamy taste of homemade creamy beef pasta. It’s a hit with everyone.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect One-Pot Meal
Making homemade creamy beef pasta is easy and fun. Here are some tips to make your dish better. They help everything cook well in one pot.
Choosing the Right Pasta
Choosing the right pasta is key for your Creamy Beef and Shells. I suggest using medium shell pasta. It holds the sauce well.
If you don’t have medium shells, macaroni or fusilli work too. This lets you use what you have and get a tasty dish.
How to Achieve the Creamy Sauce
To get a creamy sauce, add heavy cream at the end. This keeps it from curdling and mixes well with other ingredients. Adding fresh cheese makes it even creamier.
Serving Suggestions for a Family-Friendly Dinner
To make dinner special with Creamy Beef and Shells, I add some extra touches. Chopped fresh parsley makes the dish look great and tastes good. Serve it with garlic bread for a tasty treat.
For a lighter option, a simple side salad is perfect. This meal is great for 4-6 people. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual nights.
- Serving Idea: Drizzle some olive oil over the garlic bread for extra richness.
- Family-Friendly Twist: Include steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas to the mix.
- Cheese Topping: Finish with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for added creaminess.
With these ideas, dinner becomes a special time. It’s filled with delicious flavors and warmth.
Nutrition Information for Creamy Beef and Shells
Knowing the nutrition facts of Creamy Beef and Shells helps me choose better for my family. Each serving, about 569g, gives us a meal full of good stuff. It has nutrients that keep us healthy.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 912 | |
| Protein | 34g | 77% |
| Carbohydrates | 55g | 18% |
| Fat | 16g | |
| Saturated Fat | 28g | 139% |
| Trans Fat | 2g | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g | 10% |
| Sugars | 8g | |
| Calcium | 396mg | 40% |
| Iron | 6mg | 80% |
| Potassium | 1090mg | 23% |
| Vitamin D | 1μg | 4% |
| Vitamin C | 14mg | 15% |
| Zinc | 8mg | 73% |
| Folate (B9) | 80μg | 20% |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
This dish has 57% fat, 25% carbs, and 18% protein. It’s a good mix of macronutrients. It’s also rich in calcium, iron, and potassium. So, it’s a great choice for a filling family meal.
Storing Leftovers for Quick Meals
After enjoying a delicious serving of Creamy Beef and Shells, I often find myself with tasty leftovers. These leftovers are perfect for quick meals throughout the week. Storing leftovers properly ensures they maintain their flavor and texture.
Once the meal has cooled, I recommend placing the leftovers in an airtight container. This method keeps the dish fresh. I can store it in the refrigerator for around 3-4 days.
When it’s time to reheat, I simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of milk or cream helps to revive the creamy sauce. This little trick makes a substantial difference!
For longer storage, I can freeze these leftovers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn. When I want a quick meal, it’s as easy as pulling from the freezer and reheating.
| Storage Method | Duration | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Add 1-2 tablespoons of liquid when reheating |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating |
Versatile Variations of Creamy Beef and Shells
This recipe for creamy beef and shells is very flexible. You can try many different ways to make it. For example, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. This makes the dish leaner but keeps the taste great.
Adding veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms is a good idea. They make the dish healthier and more colorful. These changes keep the meal exciting and full of flavor.
Playing with cheese can also change the dish a lot. Mozzarella makes it gooey, while pepper jack adds a spicy kick. These changes make the dish fun to make again and again.
Don’t forget to try new seasonings. A little curry powder or smoked paprika can make it even better. This way, every time you make it, it feels like a new adventure.
These changes are great for anyone, whether you have special dietary needs or just want to try something new. They make creamy beef and shells a dish that everyone can enjoy.
Why This is the Ultimate Comfort Food
Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food. It has everything I want on a cozy night. The creamy texture and tender pasta shells make a perfect taste.
This dish reminds me of my childhood. It uses ground beef, just like my favorite meals. It brings back happy memories.
I can make this dish in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for relaxing after a long day. Every bite feels like a warm hug.
This dish is full of good stuff like lean ground beef and creamy cheese. It has about 677 calories per serving. It’s a mix of protein and carbs that makes me feel full and happy.
Reviews and Feedback on this Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
People love the Creamy Beef and Shells recipe. They say it’s easy to make and tastes great. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
This recipe is good for 4-6 people. It’s great for my family, making sure everyone gets a full meal.
Many say it’s a hit with kids and adults. It’s a favorite in our house. The white cheddar cheese makes it extra special.
I love making this for my family. It’s easy and everyone loves it. It brings warmth and joy to our meals.