Easy Creamy Beef and Shells for a Quick Family Dinner

This Easy Creamy Beef and Shells dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying family dinner. It combines hearty ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a rich, creamy sauce, making it a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is fantastic for busy weeknights when you need something fast yet delicious. It brings together simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Additionally, it’s versatile and can easily be customized to suit your family’s tastes.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta shells
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

How to make it

1. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet and mix until well combined.

How to serve it

Serve the creamy beef and shells hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. It pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to store it

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

Helpful tips

• Make sure to drain the pasta shells well to avoid excess water in the sauce.
• For extra flavor, you can sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant before adding the ground beef.
• Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, especially if you prefer a stronger flavor.

Optional variations

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you want a lighter option.
• Try adding vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to increase the nutritional value.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta you have on hand can work in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Absolutely! You can use reduced-fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream, and leaner ground meat like turkey or chicken.

Can I freeze this dish?
While freezing is possible, the creamy sauce might change in texture. If you plan to freeze it, you might want to leave out the cream until you’re ready to reheat it.

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