Looking for a quick and satisfying dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights? This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is rich, cheesy, and loaded with comforting flavor. It’s a hearty one-pan meal that blends savory ground beef with tender pasta shells and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Best of all, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for families, busy professionals, or anyone craving a satisfying home-cooked meal.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
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Quick and easy to prepare
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One-pan meal means fewer dishes
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Kid-friendly and full of familiar flavors
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Budget-conscious and made with pantry staples
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Easily customizable for different preferences
Ingredients Breakdown:
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Medium Pasta Shells (8 oz) – The perfect shape for holding onto all that creamy, meaty sauce.
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Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Used to sauté and bring everything together.
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Ground Beef (1 lb) – Adds heartiness and bold, savory flavor.
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Sweet Onion (1 small, finely diced) – Brings a mild sweetness to balance the rich sauce.
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Garlic (5 cloves, minced) – Aromatic and bold, it deepens the flavor base.
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Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – A classic herb blend for that signature Italian flair.
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Dried Parsley (1 tsp) – Brightens the dish with a touch of herbiness.
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Dried Oregano (1/2 tsp) – Adds depth and warmth.
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Smoked Paprika (1/2 tsp) – Brings a subtle smoky kick.
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All-Purpose Flour (2 tbsp) – Helps thicken the creamy, luscious sauce.
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Beef Stock (1 cup) – Enhances the meaty flavor and forms the base of the sauce.
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Marinara Sauce (15 oz can) – Adds tomato richness and a touch of acidity.
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Heavy Cream (3/4 cup) – Makes the sauce luxuriously rich and smooth.
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Sour Cream (1/4 cup) – Adds tang and creamy texture.
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Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – To taste; essential for flavor balance.
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Cheddar Cheese (1½ cups, freshly grated) – Melts right in for a cheesy finish.
Tips and Tricks
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Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and texture.
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Cook pasta al dente to prevent it from getting mushy when added to the sauce.
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Taste as you go and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
Variations and Customizations
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Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
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Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
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Change the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
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Make it gluten-free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta and flour.
Pairing Suggestions
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Garlic bread or toasted baguette
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A crisp green salad or Caesar salad
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A glass of red wine, iced tea, or sparkling water
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
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To Reheat: Warm over medium heat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
Popular Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just reheat gently before serving.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, but you can easily add heat with chili flakes or hot sauce.
What type of pasta can I use instead of shells?
Penne, rigatoni, rotini, or elbow macaroni work well in this recipe.