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–+ servings
Creamy Beef and Shells

Indulgent Creamy Beef and Shells for Cozy Family Dinners

A comforting Creamy Beef and Shells recipe that brings families together with rich flavors and gooey melted cheese.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces medium pasta shells These shells hold the creamy sauce.
For the Beef Mixture
  • 1 pound ground beef Lean ground beef is best.
  • 1 medium yellow onion Finely diced.
  • 2 cloves garlic Freshly minced.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper Freshly cracked.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth Homemade is best.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Star ingredient.
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese Shredded.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley Chopped.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large deep skillet
  • colander
  • wooden spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add medium pasta shells and cook until just shy of al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, heat over medium-high heat, add ground beef and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  3. Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Mix in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Pour beef broth into the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then lower heat and add heavy cream, stirring continuously.
  6. Gradually sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is thick, about 2-3 minutes.
  7. Add drained pasta shells to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  8. Turn off heat, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, avoid overcooking the pasta and use high-quality cheese for melting.

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