Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

This Pasta Shells with Ground Beef recipe is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together tender pasta shells and flavorful ground beef in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. The combination of Italian seasoning, cheddar cheese, and a touch of heavy cream makes this meal both satisfying and full of flavor.

It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner and can be prepared in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

Ingredients

1 tbsp Olive Oil

½ Vidalia onion, chopped

1 pound ground beef

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 ½ tsp Italian Seasoning

2 tbsp all purpose flour

15 ounces tomato sauce

2 cups beef broth

¾ cup heavy cream

1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese, freshly shredded

Salt and pepper to taste

8 ounces shell macaroni, cooked

Instructions

Step 1:

Cook the pasta shells according to package directions, using a pot of salted water

In a skillet, add the Olive Oil and the the ground beef

Step 2:

Crumble the beef and cook until no longer pink

Add in the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and the chopped onion

Step 3:

Cook until the onion begins to soften

Drain the excess fat from the skillet

Add the flour and stir until it begins to brown

Step 4:

Add in the beef broth and the tomato sauce

Stir to blend together

Step 5:

Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and stir constantly until the sauce begins to thicken.

Add the ground beef, onions, the heavy cream and stir together

Add the cooked pasta and stir to combine

Step 6:

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add in the 1 ½ cups cheese and stir until melted

Serve immediately

Enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

YIELD: 4 SERVING SIZE: 1

Amount Per Serving:

Notes:

Creamy Texture: The heavy cream and cheddar cheese create a rich, creamy sauce that coats the pasta shells beautifully. For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.

Seasoning Balance: Italian seasoning adds a blend of herbs and spices that enhance the flavor of the beef and sauce. Feel free to adjust the amount based on your taste preferences or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Beef Variations: Ground beef is used here, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for different flavors. Ensure you drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Thickening the Sauce: The flour helps to thicken the sauce. Make sure to cook it until it turns a light brown to develop flavor and avoid a raw flour taste.

Pasta Cooking: Cook the pasta shells al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce. This helps prevent them from becoming too soft.

Cheese Melting: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melt and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the melting quality.

Flavor Enhancements: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving for added freshness and color.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. It also makes great leftovers, as the flavors continue to develop over time.

Adjusting Consistency: If the sauce is too thick after combining with the pasta, you can add a little more beef broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, ziti, or even elbow macaroni.

Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will absorb some of the sauce during baking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance.

Cook the pasta and beef mixture, then combine and refrigerate.

When ready to serve, reheat thoroughly, adding a little milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan.

Keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the flavor and melting properties of the dish.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, omit the ground beef and use a plant-based meat substitute or add extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.

You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well.

Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of beef broth, milk, or water to reach your desired consistency.

Stir well and reheat gently.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

These will provide a slightly different flavor but will work well in the recipe.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta shells until they are al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.

Avoid overcooking the pasta initially to keep its texture.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the dish.

Sauté them with the onions and beef for added flavor and nutrition.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Conversely, if you want to reduce the spice level, ensure you use mild Italian seasoning and avoid adding any hot spices.