Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells is a delicious dish that’s perfect for the whole family! This comforting meal combines tender pasta with savory beef in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.

Why make this recipe

Making Creamy Beef and Shells is a fantastic way to please everyone at the dinner table. The flavors are rich and satisfying, and the recipe is simple enough that even beginner cooks can master it. Plus, it’s a great option for those nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to make Creamy Beef and Shells

Ingredients :

• 8 oz medium pasta shells
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 15 oz can marinara sauce

Directions :

1. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and ground beef to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. Stir in the Italian seasoning, dried parsley, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well, cooking for an additional minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
6. Gradually add the beef stock, stirring well to combine. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Stir in the marinara sauce and cooked pasta shells. Mix everything to coat the pasta in the sauce.
8. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld. Serve warm.

How to serve Creamy Beef and Shells

Serve Creamy Beef and Shells warm, straight from the skillet. You can top it with some grated Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for added flavor. It pairs nicely with a simple side salad or some garlic bread.

How to store Creamy Beef and Shells

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for about 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or beef stock to bring back the creaminess.

Tips to make Creamy Beef and Shells

• Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente, as it will cook a bit more when mixed with the sauce.
• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Feel free to add some veggies like spinach or bell peppers to the mix for extra nutrition and flavor.

Variation (if any)

If you want to spice things up, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to give it a kick. You can also swap out marinara sauce for a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use other shapes of pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini.

2. Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells?
Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.

3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with a meat substitute or more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers instead.