Description
This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a comforting and hearty pasta dish featuring tender ground beef, perfectly cooked medium pasta shells, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Enhanced with aromatic herbs and spices, this meal is quick to prepare and ideal for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces (2 cups) medium pasta shells, cooked
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef (97% lean)
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons parsley dried or fresh, divided
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Dairy
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Garnish
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, torn (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the medium pasta shells according to package directions, about 7-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook beef mixture: In a large pot over medium heat, add ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and juices run clear. If any fat accumulates, remove it from the pot to reduce greasiness.
- Add flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the cooked beef mixture and stir continuously for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and help thicken the sauce.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the spaghetti sauce and beef broth. Add 1 teaspoon of parsley, Italian seasoning, oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir well and let it simmer for 6-9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens nicely.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the pot and stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add cheeses and cream: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and sour cream until fully combined and creamy.
- Season to taste: Taste the dish and add salt if needed, although the spaghetti sauce and cheese typically provide enough seasoning.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh torn parsley for a bright finish and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute medium pasta shells with other pasta varieties like elbow macaroni or rotini.
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- To reduce fat content, use a lower-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt alternative.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding seasonings.
