why make this recipe

This dish is quick, filling, and easy. It uses simple ingredients you likely have at home. The pasta and creamy sauce make it a comfort meal for weeknights. It also feeds a family without much work.

introduction

Creamy Beef and Shells is a one-pot meal that cooks fast. You brown beef, add pasta and broth, then stir in cream and cheese. If you like simple ground beef meals, see three-ingredient ground beef recipes for more easy ideas.

how to make Creamy Beef and Shells

Ingredients : 8 oz shell pasta, 1 lb ground beef, 1 onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 cups beef broth, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, Salt and pepper to taste, Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions :

In a large pot, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper.
Drain any excess fat.
Add the beef broth and pasta to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.
Stir in the heavy cream and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Follow the directions step by step. Watch the pasta near the end so it does not overcook. Stir after adding cream to make a smooth sauce.

how to serve Creamy Beef and Shells

Serve hot from the pot. Scoop onto plates and sprinkle with extra parsley. This dish goes well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

how to store Creamy Beef and Shells

Let the dish cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring and adding a splash of milk or broth if it is thick. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Creamy Beef and Shells

Use medium heat when browning beef so the onions soften and do not burn.
Drain fat well to keep the sauce from tasting oily.
Stir often after adding cream so the cheese melts evenly.
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. For other simple beef meal ideas, check an easy beef and broccoli recipe for cooking tips you can try with ground beef.

variation (if any)

Add vegetables like peas or spinach for more color and nutrition.
Swap cheddar for a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for a different melt and flavor.
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I use different pasta?
A: Yes. Any small pasta like macaroni or rotini works. Cook time may change.

Q: Do I need to drain the pasta after cooking?
A: No. The pasta cooks in the broth in this recipe, so you do not drain it.

Q: Can I make this without cream?
A: You can use milk or half-and-half, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a little extra cheese to thicken.

Q: How do I stop the sauce from separating?
A: Cook over low heat after adding cream and do not boil. Stir until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.

Q: Can I add spices?
A: Yes. A pinch of paprika or Italian seasoning adds flavor.

Conclusion

If you want another version of this meal, try the recipe on Damn Delicious for a similar take. You can also see a different simple method at Salt & Lavender.