Creamy Beef and Pasta Shells is a dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a perfect meal for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet easy to prepare. The combination of Italian seasoning, paprika, and mustard powder gives the dish a unique and appetizing flavor, making it a sure hit among both adults and children.
This dish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or add in your favorite vegetables for an extra nutritional boost. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, Creamy Beef and Pasta Shells is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds and leave them asking for seconds.
Table of contents
Creamy Beef And Shells Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ of a medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 jar (15 oz) tomato sauce
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 oz extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 1 ½ cups)
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water as per the package’s instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the ground beef until browned (about 3-5 minutes), breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate.
- In the same pan, sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, and mustard powder to the onions, cooking for another minute.
- Sprinkle in the flour and cook for about a minute until it turns light brown.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens slightly (about 6-8 minutes).
- Add the cooked pasta and beef back into the pan. Pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Lastly, mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce.
Prep Time: 0 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 429 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Enjoy your delicious pasta dish!
Creamy Beef And Shells FAQS
Cooking ground beef typically takes about 7-10 minutes. You should cook it in a skillet over medium heat. The beef is done when it’s no longer pink and has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). It’s important to stir the beef occasionally while cooking to ensure even cooking and to break up any large pieces.
Various meats pair well with pasta, including:
Ground Beef: Common in spaghetti Bolognese and lasagna.
Chicken: Often used in Alfredo pasta or with pesto.
Italian Sausage: Adds a spicy kick to pasta dishes.
Meatballs: Made from beef, pork, or a combination, they’re a classic with spaghetti.
Bacon or Pancetta: Used in dishes like carbonara.
Seafood: Such as shrimp, clams, or mussels, especially in lighter pasta dishes or with garlic and oil.
To safely cook ground beef:
Thaw Safely: If frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.
Cook Thoroughly: Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw meat and other ingredients.
Wash Hands: Always wash your hands before and after handling raw beef.
The method of cooking raw beef depends on the cut. Here are some general guidelines:
Steaks and Roasts: Best cooked over dry heat like grilling, broiling, or roasting. Cooking times vary based on the thickness and desired doneness.
Ground Beef: Cook in a skillet over medium heat until browned and no longer pink, usually about 7-10 minutes.
Stewing Beef: Best cooked slowly in liquid, such as in stews or braises, to become tender.
Always Season: Before cooking, season your beef with at least salt and pepper for flavor enhancement.