Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food — a hearty and filling dish that combines tender pasta shells with a rich, creamy sauce, and savory ground beef. This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion to the beef and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce and heavy cream. Add paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes to let the flavors combine.
- Add the cheese: Lower the heat and gradually stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and stir to coat the pasta with the sauce. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
