Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Beef and Shells is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender pasta shells with a rich and flavorful beef sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 8 oz. medium pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the Tomato Paste and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to develop the flavors.
5. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
6. Add the Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta shells to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
8. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Variations

• For Extra Veggies: Add chopped spinach or peas to the sauce for a more balanced meal.
• Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, any medium pasta will work, such as penne or fusilli.
2. Is there a way to make this dish healthier? You can use lean ground turkey or chicken, and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and combine it with the pasta just before serving.
4. What can I serve with this dish? A side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this creamy pasta.
5. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, but the texture of the pasta may change. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
6. What if I don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute half-and-half or use a dairy-free alternative.
7. Can I add more cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to increase the amount of cheese for an extra cheesy dish.
8. What kind of beef is best for this recipe? Ground beef is typically used, but ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives work as well.
9. Is it necessary to add red pepper flakes? No, they are optional for heat. You can omit them for a milder dish.
10. How can I make this dish vegetarian? Substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is a delightful meal that combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, this dish is sure to please the whole family. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Enjoy your cooking!

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