Creamy Pasta Shells with Ground Beef: A Comfort Food Classic

Imagine the aroma of savory ground beef, the richness of melted cheddar cheese, and the comforting bite of tender pasta shells—all coming together in a creamy, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug. Creamy pasta shells with ground beef is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, this recipe will soon become one of your go-to favorites.

Why Creamy Pasta Shells with Ground Beef Is a Must-Try Recipe

There’s something magical about a dish that combines rich flavors, a creamy texture, and hearty ingredients. This recipe is versatile, satisfying, and sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this dish comes together effortlessly, making it a crowd-pleaser for all occasions.

Ingredients for Creamy Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting dish:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Medium pasta shells	8 ounces	The base of the dish; holds the sauce perfectly.
Olive oil	1 tablespoon	Adds flavor and prevents sticking.
Ground beef	1 pound	Provides a hearty, savory element.
Sweet onion (diced)	1/2 medium	Adds a hint of sweetness and depth.
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	Enhances the overall flavor with a savory kick.
Italian seasoning	1 1/2 teaspoons	Brings aromatic, herby notes to the dish.
All-purpose flour	2 tablespoons	Helps thicken the sauce.
Beef stock	2 cups	Forms the savory base of the sauce.
Tomato sauce	1 (15-ounce) can	Adds richness and tanginess.
Heavy cream	3/4 cup	Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
Extra-sharp cheddar cheese	6 ounces (1 1/2 cups)	Melts into the sauce for a cheesy finish.

Seasonings

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Kosher salt	To taste	Balances all the flavors.
Freshly ground black pepper	To taste	Adds mild heat and depth to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

Follow these steps to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook for 3–5 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns.
3. Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat and set the meat aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Whisk continuously for about 1 minute until the flour is lightly browned.
2. Gradually pour in the beef stock, whisking to prevent lumps.
3. Add the tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Cook

1. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine.
2. Add the cooked pasta shells and heavy cream, stirring until heated through (about 1–2 minutes).
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

1. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese into the skillet.
2. Stir for about 2 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Transfer the creamy pasta shells to serving bowls and enjoy while hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

• Choose the right pasta: Medium pasta shells are ideal because they hold the creamy sauce well, but you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or rotini.
• Season as you go: Layering flavors by seasoning at every stage enhances the dish’s complexity.
• Don’t skip the heavy cream: It adds richness and balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
• Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may contain anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a nutritional breakdown for one serving of creamy pasta shells with ground beef (based on six servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	25g
Saturated Fat	12g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	600mg

Delicious Variations to Try

• Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Veggie Boost: Include diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients.
• Mexican-Inspired: Swap the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning, and use Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar.

FAQs About Creamy Pasta Shells with Ground Beef

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cheese, then refrigerate. Reheat on the stove and stir in the cheese before serving.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less rich.

4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative.

5. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Make sure the cheese is added gradually and stirred into a warm (not boiling) sauce. Use freshly grated cheese for the best results.

6. Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Creamy pasta shells with ground beef is a recipe that combines simplicity with satisfaction. It’s versatile enough to please picky eaters yet flavorful enough to impress dinner guests. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.

Try It Tonight!

Ready to experience the ultimate comfort food? Gather your ingredients and give this creamy pasta shells with ground beef recipe a try. With its bold flavors, creamy sauce, and hearty texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking and create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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