If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a busy night, then you absolutely must try Creamy Beef and Shells. This comforting and hearty meal combines tender pasta shells with rich, savory ground beef all enveloped in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying yet simple to make, and once you taste it, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds). Creamy Beef and Shells is one of those dishes that instantly becomes a favorite because it effortlessly marries cheesy goodness with robust spices and a silky sauce texture that everyone will love.

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Beef and Shells is in how uncomplicated the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in building layers of taste, texture, and color. From the perfectly shaped pasta shells that cradle every bit of sauce, to the sharp cheddar that melts into creamy decadence, this list is an invitation to comfort food heaven.

8 ounces medium pasta shells: These little cups are perfect for trapping the creamy sauce and beef in every bite.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds the necessary fat for sautéing and a subtle fruity note.
1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that gives depth and a meaty richness to the dish.
1/2 medium sweet onion (diced): Provides natural sweetness and soft texture as it cooks down.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic infuses the dish with its aromatic warmth and a mild bite.
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that lifts the sauce with herbs like oregano and basil.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent to create that velvety sauce texture.
2 cups beef stock: Enhances the meaty flavor base and adds richness to the sauce.
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Brings acidity and vibrant color for balanced flavor.
3/4 cup heavy cream: The secret ingredient that makes this dish irresistibly creamy and smooth.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and elevating all the flavors.
6 ounces shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 1/2 cups): Adds a sharp, tangy kick and luscious gooeyness when melted in.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the medium pasta shells just until tender. This ensures they remain firm enough to hold up in the rich sauce without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly and set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef. Brown it by crumbling the meat as it cooks, which helps everything cook evenly and ensures you get nice bits of savory, flavorful beef throughout the dish. When the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat and set the meat aside for later.

Step 3: Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Italian Seasoning

In the same skillet, add diced sweet onion and cook until translucent, allowing its natural sweetness to develop. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, letting the aromas build for about a minute. This layer of flavors is key in forming the delicious sauce that makes this dish shine.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce Base

Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and cook it for about a minute to remove the raw taste, helping to thicken the sauce. Slowly whisk in the beef stock and tomato sauce, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until it thickens and reduces slightly, which concentrates the flavors beautifully over 6 to 8 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Beef, and Cream

Return the cooked pasta shells and browned beef to the skillet, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir everything together over low heat until the sauce is silky and heated through. Season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper for that perfect final seasoning touch.

Step 6: Melt in the Cheddar Cheese

Finally, sprinkle the extra-sharp cheddar cheese over the pasta and stir until it melts completely, creating a glossy, cheesy coating on every shell and beef morsel. This step is what brings the whole Creamy Beef and Shells dish to its ultimate indulgent finish.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells

Garnishes

To elevate your Creamy Beef and Shells, try garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or basil. These bright green herbs add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the richness. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes works well for a subtle kick, and a few extra shreds of sharp cheddar on top offer an eye-catching cheesy finish.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty and filling, so pairing it with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables creates a nice contrast in textures and flavors. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are fantastic companions too, perfect for mopping up every last bit of that luscious creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Creamy Beef and Shells in individual oven-safe dishes and bake briefly under the broiler to get a golden, bubbly cheese crust on top. Alternatively, stuff large roasted bell peppers with the mixture for a colorful presentation that adds a mild sweetness and makes for an impressive dinner plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Beef and Shells stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it sits, so before serving again, you may want to add a splash of milk or stock to loosen it back up to that silky consistency you love.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. For best results, cool the dish completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When freezing, separate portions so it’s easy to thaw just what you need. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta might soften slightly after freezing, but the flavors will remain delicious.

Reheating

Reheat Creamy Beef and Shells gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often and adding a bit of milk or beef stock as necessary to restore the creamy texture. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through, making dinner both quick and convenient without losing any of that comforting essence.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well in Creamy Beef and Shells, adjusting the seasoning slightly to match the protein you choose.

What kind of pasta shells should I use?

Medium pasta shells are ideal because they’re the perfect size to hold the creamy sauce and beef mixture. If you can’t find shells, small elbow macaroni or mini rigatoni can be good substitutes.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream, and choose a vegan cheese substitute to maintain that creamy, cheesy element.

How spicy is Creamy Beef and Shells?

This dish is mild but packed with flavor. You can easily add spice by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce according to your taste preferences.

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?

Yes, Creamy Beef and Shells scales up wonderfully. Just be sure to use a larger skillet or pot to accommodate the increased volume and cook the beef in batches if needed for even browning.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Beef and Shells isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience of cozy satisfaction that makes weeknight dinners something to look forward to. The blend of rich creaminess, savory beef, and cheesy melody wrapped in pasta shells will bring smiles around your table, guaranteed. Give it a try and watch this recipe become one of your personal favorites in no time!

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 18 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting and hearty pasta dish featuring tender medium pasta shells tossed in a rich, creamy tomato and beef sauce with sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe combines ground beef, savory seasonings, and a luscious cream sauce that comes together quickly for a satisfying meal.

Instructions

Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the medium pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Brown Beef: Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, crumbling it as it cooks, until browned and no longer pink, about 3-5 minutes. Drain excess fat and set beef aside.
Sauté Onion: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until translucent and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Make Roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute until it is lightly browned, which will help thicken the sauce.
Prepare Sauce: Gradually whisk in the beef stock and tomato sauce, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has reduced and thickened slightly, about 6-8 minutes.
Combine Pasta and Cream: Add the cooked pasta, browned beef, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir everything together and heat through for 1-2 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Add Cheese and Serve: Stir in the shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese until melted and well combined, about 2 minutes. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, cheesy pasta dish.

Notes

Use medium pasta shells as they hold the creamy sauce perfectly inside.
Draining the excess fat after browning the beef improves the dish’s richness without becoming greasy.
Feel free to swap beef stock for vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
Extra-sharp cheddar adds a nice tang; you can substitute with a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a milder taste.
Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American