Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting, one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender pasta shells with a rich and flavorful beef sauce, creating a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

With creamy cheese and a hint of Italian seasoning, this dish is sure to please the whole family. It’s a delightful way to bring warmth and flavor to your dinner table!

How to make Creamy Beef and Shells

Ingredients:

9 oz medium shells

1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)

½ cup white onion (diced or use yellow onion)

Half a tablespoon of garlic (chopped)

1 pound lean ground beef

All-purpose flour cup

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon salt and pepper (to taste)

1/2 cup beef broth

15 oz of tomato sauce

4 ounces cream cheese (soft, cubed)

2 cups cheddar cheese (grated)

Instructions

Step 1:

In a large pot of salted water, cook the medium shells until they are tender but still firm to the bite, usually about 12 minutes less than the package instructions suggest.

Step 2:

In a large skillet or non-stick pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and chopped garlic.

Sauté until the onion is translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3:

Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned and breaking up the meat as it cooks.

Once the beef is browned, sprinkle in the flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and mix well with the meat.

Step 4:

Slowly pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, then bring to a boil over low heat.

Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally as the sauce thickens.

Step 5:

Add the cubed cream cheese and stir until it’s melted and well incorporated.

Then mix in the grated cheddar cheese until everything is creamy and smooth.

Step 6:

Finally, combine the cooked pasta shells with the beef mixture, stirring to coat the shells evenly.

Step 7:

Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes:

Pasta Variations: While medium shells are great for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like rotini or penne if desired.

Ground Beef Options: You can use different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a lighter version. Just be mindful of cooking times, as leaner meats may require less time.

Adding Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for the best results.

Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for an extra kick!

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes! Whole wheat pasta can add more fiber and nutrients.

Gluten-free pasta is also a great option; just adjust the cooking time as needed, since it may vary from traditional pasta.

How can I make this dish lighter?

To lighten it up, you can use leaner ground meat (like turkey or chicken), reduce the amount of cheese, or use low-fat cream cheese.

You can also increase the vegetable content to add bulk without extra calories.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the beef sauce and cook the pasta separately in advance.

Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator and combine when ready to serve.

Reheat on the stove or microwave.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

If you don’t have beef broth, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute.

You can also add a little water with extra seasoning for flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well!

Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when ready to eat.

How do I know when the ground beef is fully cooked?

The ground beef is fully cooked when it is no longer pink and has an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy if needed.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of beef broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Stir well until incorporated.

Can I substitute the cream cheese with something else?

Yes, you can use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor, or opt for a lower-fat cream cheese alternative.

Just be mindful that this may alter the creaminess slightly.

How can I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

To prevent sticking, make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks and drain it immediately after cooking.

Tossing the pasta with a little olive oil after draining can also help.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning, you can create a substitute by mixing equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme.

You can also add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.