Creamy Beef and Shells

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that warms the soul and fills the belly, look no further than Creamy Beef and Shells. This delightful dish combines tender beef and pasta in a luscious cream sauce, creating a perfect comfort meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you’re entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress. The versatility of ingredients makes it ideal for families, while the indulgent flavors will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Readers will love the simplicity of this dish, making it a go-to for those who may feel challenged in the kitchen. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time. With creamy goodness wrapped around every shell, this dish will become a cherished favorite in your home.

This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 8 oz medium pasta shells
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Gather your ingredients to prepare this creamy and comforting dish.

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the shells and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
3. Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the mixture. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Gently fold in the cooked pasta shells, ensuring they are well-coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve hot, and finish with a sprinkle of extra Italian seasoning for a touch of flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient Substitutions: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
• Optional Variations: Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas to incorporate some greens into the dish. You can also mix in cheese, such as Parmesan or mozzarella, for added creaminess.
• Storage and Reheating Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to restore creaminess.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty level: Easy

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