Name: Creamy Beef and Shells
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound ground beef; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup crushed tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 ounces shell pasta; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s fast, easy, and rich with flavor? Creamy Beef and Shells is the dinner hero you didn’t know you needed. With tender pasta shells wrapped in a velvety beef and tomato sauce, it’s a one-pan wonder that’ll make weeknights feel like a treat.

Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hungry adults, this dish is always a win. It’s hearty, satisfying, and ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends when you crave something homey and delicious.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Shell pasta is ideal because it cradles the creamy meat sauce in every bite, but elbow macaroni or rotini also work beautifully. Just choose a shape that holds sauce well for that perfect balance of creamy and savory.

Ingredients for the Creamy Beef and Shells

Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish, offering bold, meaty flavor and richness.

Shell Pasta: A great choice for trapping the creamy sauce in every bite.

Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build depth and bring the savory base to life.

Tomato Paste and Crushed Tomatoes: They form the robust tomato backbone of the sauce.

Heavy Cream: Adds lusciousness and smoothness to balance the acidity of tomatoes.

Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the sauce, delivering that gooey, creamy goodness.

Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

How To Make the Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook shell pasta according to package instructions in salted water. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, sauté diced onion in olive oil over medium heat until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Break it up with a spoon and drain any excess grease.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Simmer for a few minutes to thicken, then pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Add cooked pasta shells to the creamy beef sauce and stir to coat evenly. Simmer on low for 2-3 minutes to let flavors mingle. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Beef and Shells

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of cheese. It’s a complete meal on its own, but also pairs well with a crisp side salad or garlic bread.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the silkiness.

What to Serve With Creamy Beef and Shells?

Garlic Bread

Golden and buttery, it’s the classic sidekick to scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crunch and tanginess of a Caesar perfectly contrast the creamy pasta.

Roasted Green Beans

Adds a fresh and slightly crispy element to the meal.

Steamed Broccoli

A simple, wholesome veggie option that balances the richness.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, they’re a double-carb dream.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Beef and Shells, these other comfort-filled dishes will win your heart too:

Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta for a nostalgic twist with cheesy goodness.
Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni when you’re craving steakhouse flavors at home.
Easy Beef Stroganoff for a rich, creamy dish packed with mushrooms.
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight for a unique blend of sweet heat and comfort.
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet for a spicy, Southern-inspired dinner.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe you swapped in ground turkey or added a splash of white wine? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Creamy Beef and Shells

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Craving a hearty, satisfying dinner idea that’s quick to make and always hits the spot? This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is your go-to! It’s packed with bold flavors from savory ground beef, tender shell pasta, and a rich, cheesy tomato cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or even make-ahead lunches, this easy recipe delivers pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner, a family-friendly pasta, or cozy food ideas, this dish is a flavorful answer to your mealtime plans.