Creamy Beef and Shells
Creamy Beef and Shells is a rich and comforting pasta casserole featuring tender ground beef and pasta shells in a creamy tomato-beef sauce, topped with sharp cheddar cheese. This easy weeknight dinner combines savory and creamy flavors that satisfy every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Category: Main Course, Casserole, Comfort Food
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering, Baking/Broiling (optional)
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
8 ounces medium pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
½ medium sweet onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef stock
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
¾ cup heavy cream
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
6 ounces shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese (about 1½ cups)
Instructions
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Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown ground beef, breaking apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
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Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant (3–4 minutes).
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Stir in Italian seasoning and sprinkle flour over mixture. Cook 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
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Gradually add beef stock, stirring, then add tomato sauce. Simmer until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
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Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
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Add cooked pasta shells, stir gently to coat evenly.
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Remove from heat, stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
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Transfer mixture to a baking dish; sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top.
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Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm.
Notes
Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies and nutrition.
Swap cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or cheese blends.
Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Substitute half-and-half or milk for a lighter dish.
Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently.
Find it online: https://familydinnercooking.com/creamy-beef-and-shells/
