why make this recipe

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting dish that combines the hearty flavors of ground beef with creamy sauce and pasta. It’s an excellent meal for families, perfect for busy weeknights, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s hunger. The recipe is straightforward, making it a great choice for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, the combination of beef, cream, and pasta makes it a rich and delightful treat.

how to make Creamy Beef and Shells

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

Directions:

Cook the pasta shells in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add beef broth and Italian seasoning; simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes until thickened.
Gently fold in the cooked pasta shells until well-coated with the sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with extra Italian seasoning.

how to serve Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells is best served hot. You can plate it in individual bowls and sprinkle some extra Italian seasoning on top for added flavor. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Creamy Beef and Shells

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

tips to make Creamy Beef and Shells

Use lean ground beef to make the dish healthier and reduce excess fat.
Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition.
If you want a little spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

variation

You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Another variation is to use different types of pasta, like penne or rigatoni, if you prefer. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with mushrooms or lentils.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Cook and combine all ingredients, then store in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

2. Can I use a different type of cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a lighter cream if you prefer, but it may not be as rich.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or spicy seasoning to the meat while cooking, or serve with hot sauce on the side.