why make this recipe
Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. It combines tender pasta shells with ground beef in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish is simple to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy family gathering. With its cheesy goodness and hearty flavors, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
how to make Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients :
- 8 oz pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Directions :
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the tomato sauce and heavy cream to the skillet with the beef; stir to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
- Stir in the cooked pasta shells and half of the cheddar cheese until everything is well coated.
- Serve hot, topped with remaining cheddar cheese.
how to serve Creamy Beef and Shells
Serve Creamy Beef and Shells hot, straight from the skillet. You can add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side for a complete meal.
how to store Creamy Beef and Shells
To store leftovers, place Creamy Beef and Shells in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
tips to make Creamy Beef and Shells
- For extra flavor, you can add some diced onions and bell peppers when cooking the ground beef.
- Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef.
- If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the sauce.
- Always taste the sauce before serving; adjust the seasoning as needed.
variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the ground beef for added nutrition and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
2. Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream or a plant-based cream alternative, as well as lean ground meat or substitute with beans for a vegetarian option.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and pasta ahead of time and combine them just before serving. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz pasta shells Use any type of pasta shells.
- 1 lb ground beef Can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with low-fat or plant-based cream.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Reserve half for topping.
Seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking oil
- Olive oil for cooking Use as needed for sautéing.
Method
Preparation
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Cooking
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the tomato sauce and heavy cream to the skillet with the beef; stir to combine.
- Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
- Stir in the cooked pasta shells and half of the cheddar cheese until everything is well coated.
- Serve hot, topped with remaining cheddar cheese.