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.
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)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook shell pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
5. Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
7. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted into a creamy sauce.
8. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Add the cooked pasta and stir to coat evenly.
10. Simmer on low heat for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving if desired.
Notes
Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore creaminess.
Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: easy dinner, pasta recipe, creamy beef pasta, comfort food, food ideas