By Creamy Beef and Shells is a comfort-food classic made simpler for home cooks. With everyday ingredients and reliable technique, it delivers big flavor with little effort.
Creamy Beef and Shells captures the essence of meals|beef & lamb while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Creamy Beef and Shells becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
1 lb ground beef
8 oz medium pasta shells
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
PREPARATION STEPS
Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Stir in cooked pasta shells and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 65 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~450 kcal | Difficulty: Medium
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
