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Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells is a hearty pasta dish featuring tender pasta shells enveloped in a flavorful sauce made with ground beef, tomatoes, and a creamy blend of cheeses. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio) Opt for quality beef for best flavor
  • 8 oz medium pasta shells Substitute with other types of pasta if desired
  • 1 small onion, finely diced About 1 cup
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced About 1 tablespoon
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with lighter options
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, drained 14.5 oz (410g)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper To taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Gather and measure all ingredients for your Creamy Beef and Shells. Dice the onion finely and mince the garlic cloves.
Cooking the Beef
  1. Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and brown, seasoning with salt and pepper, about 5-6 minutes.
Sautéing Aromatics
  1. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Building the Sauce
  1. Add the tomato paste and Italian seasoning, stirring for 1-2 minutes until the paste darkens slightly.
Adding Liquids and Pasta
  1. Pour in the beef broth, drained diced tomatoes, and uncooked pasta shells. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for about 8-10 minutes.
Creating Creamy Finish
  1. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer uncovered for 2-3 minutes, then gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted.
Serving
  1. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Feel free to customize this dish with different veggies or spices for personal preferences. Experimenting can lead to delightful variations.