When it comes to comfort food, few things are as satisfying as a warm, creamy pasta dish. This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is the epitome of hearty, home-cooked goodness. Tender pasta shells perfectly cradle the savory beef sauce, while a rich blend of cheeses and cream makes every bite indulgent and irresistible. It’s a meal that brings people together, turning any dinner table into a place of laughter, comfort, and delicious memories.
For many of us, dishes like this hold a special place in our hearts, bringing back memories of family dinners, cozy weeknights, and the simple joy of a homemade meal. Creamy Beef and Shells is one of those recipes that’s both nostalgic and timeless—a dish that satisfies every craving while remaining wonderfully easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a casual dinner, or just treating yourself, this is one recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for Busy Nights
Life gets hectic, and we don’t always have hours to spend in the kitchen. This recipe comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for those nights when you need a quick yet comforting meal.
Family-Friendly Favorite
Picky eaters? Not anymore! Kids and adults alike will adore this creamy, cheesy pasta dish. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavors everyone can agree on.
One-Pot Wonder
Who doesn’t love a recipe that minimizes dishes? With just one pot, you can cook, combine, and serve this delicious meal, saving you time and effort on cleanup.
Easy to Customize
Whether you want to add vegetables, swap out the meat, or experiment with different cheeses, this recipe is endlessly adaptable. It’s a great way to get creative in the kitchen while sticking to the basics.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this irresistible dish:
- Pasta shells: 8 ounces (medium-sized)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Ground beef: 1 pound
- Sweet onion: 1 small, finely diced
- Garlic: 5 cloves, minced
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Beef stock: 1 cup
- Marinara sauce: 1 (15-ounce) can
- Heavy cream: 3/4 cup
- Sour cream: 1/4 cup
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste
- Cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups, freshly grated
How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook them until al dente, according to package instructions. This typically takes about 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water in case you need to adjust the sauce’s consistency later. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper as it cooks. Once done, drain off any excess grease and transfer the beef to a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and slightly translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to coat them evenly. Cook the mixture for 1–2 minutes, letting the flour toast lightly. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce and creating a smooth, velvety texture.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Slowly pour in the beef stock, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once the stock is fully incorporated, stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, parsley, oregano, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 6–8 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Add the Dairy
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture heat through for 1–2 minutes, then add the sour cream, whisking gently until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Beef
Return the cooked pasta shells and browned beef to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 8: Add the Cheese
Fold in the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts completely into the sauce. This step adds richness and ties all the flavors together, making the dish wonderfully cheesy and satisfying.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Creamy Beef and Shells immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley or an extra pinch of cheese for a little extra flair. Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips for Success
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: The pasta will continue to absorb liquid once it’s mixed with the sauce, so cooking it al dente prevents it from becoming overly soft.
- Grate Your Cheese Fresh: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating fresh cheese ensures a creamy, velvety sauce.
- Reserve Pasta Water: A splash of pasta water can work wonders for loosening the sauce and making it cling to the pasta perfectly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the sauce before serving. Depending on the saltiness of your beef stock and cheese, you may need to adjust the salt and pepper.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Notes and Variations
- Add Veggies: Stir in cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Switch the Protein: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Try Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with mozzarella, Parmesan, or a mix of cheeses for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~550
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 35
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Freezer
This dish also freezes well. Divide it into individual portions and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this dish, you’ll love these comforting classics:
Conclusion
Creamy Beef and Shells is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting embrace after a long day, a dish that brings smiles to the table, and a recipe you’ll treasure for years to come. Its rich, cheesy sauce and hearty beef make it a true crowd-pleaser, while its simplicity ensures it’s accessible even on the busiest of nights. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite!
Print
Creamy Beef and Shells: The Ultimate Weeknight Comfort Dish
Description
When it comes to comfort food, few things are as satisfying as a warm, creamy pasta dish. This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is the epitome of hearty, home-cooked goodness. Tender pasta shells perfectly cradle the savory beef sauce, while a rich blend of cheeses and cream makes every bite indulgent and irresistible.
Ingredients
- Pasta shells: 8 ounces (medium-sized)
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Ground beef: 1 pound
- Sweet onion: 1 small, finely diced
- Garlic: 5 cloves, minced
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Dried parsley: 1 teaspoon
- Dried oregano: 1/2 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Beef stock: 1 cup
- Marinara sauce: 1 (15-ounce) can
- Heavy cream: 3/4 cup
- Sour cream: 1/4 cup
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste
- Cheddar cheese: 1 1/2 cups, freshly grated
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook them until al dente, according to package instructions. This typically takes about 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water in case you need to adjust the sauce’s consistency later. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper as it cooks. Once done, drain off any excess grease and transfer the beef to a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until softened and slightly translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to coat them evenly. Cook the mixture for 1–2 minutes, letting the flour toast lightly. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce and creating a smooth, velvety texture.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Slowly pour in the beef stock, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once the stock is fully incorporated, stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, parsley, oregano, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 6–8 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Add the Dairy
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let the mixture heat through for 1–2 minutes, then add the sour cream, whisking gently until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Beef
Return the cooked pasta shells and browned beef to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 8: Add the Cheese
Fold in the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts completely into the sauce. This step adds richness and ties all the flavors together, making the dish wonderfully cheesy and satisfying.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Creamy Beef and Shells immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley or an extra pinch of cheese for a little extra flair. Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Add Veggies: Stir in cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Switch the Protein: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Try Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with mozzarella, Parmesan, or a mix of cheeses for a unique twist.