Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

This creamy beef and shells recipe is the perfect combination of tender ground beef, rich cheddar cheese, and creamy sauce, all wrapped around perfectly cooked shell pasta. A flavorful blend of Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of hot sauce creates a savory, comforting dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this creamy pasta dish is sure to satisfy.

Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this recipe is customizable with options for vegetarian or dairy-free versions, and it’s easy to make spicy with extra red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Serve it with garlic bread and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an indulgent meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 small yellow onion, diced (or 1 tsp onion powder as a substitute)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon flour (optional, helps thicken the sauce)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 16 oz tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup half and half
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ lb medium shell pasta
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

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Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Shred the cheddar cheese and measure out all other ingredients. Begin heating water for the pasta.
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper, and cook, breaking it apart for about 4 minutes until browned. Add the diced onion and cook for another 5 minutes until softened. Drain any excess grease.
3. Flavor the Beef: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Stir in hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, mustard powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sprinkle in the flour (optional) and cook for 1-2 minutes to combine.
4. Build the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth and use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, and softened cream cheese. Let the sauce simmer.
5. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the shell pasta according to the package instructions, usually 7-8 minutes. Optionally, add a pinch of salt to the boiling water for extra flavor.
6. Finish the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in half and half. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the sauce. Stir to combine, making sure the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
8. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top. Pair with garlic bread for a complete meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy beef and shells recipe is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef with a rich, cheesy sauce. The addition of cream cheese and cheddar makes the sauce velvety smooth, while the shell pasta holds the sauce perfectly. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights but still feels like a treat.

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Tips

• Cheese Variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or a sharp cheddar, for a twist on the flavor.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, consider using the flour to help create a more velvety consistency. If not, simply skip this step.
• Customizing the Spice: Adjust the amount of hot sauce and red pepper flakes based on your desired level of spice. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use dairy-free cheese and cream alternatives like coconut cream or oat milk to make this dish dairy-free.
• Extra Veggies: Add in some chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini are great alternatives.

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can make the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and add the cooked pasta.

How can I make this spicier? Increase the amount of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or even add a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

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Serving

Serve creamy beef and shells with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

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Suggestions

For a well-rounded meal, serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light soup before the pasta. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with something crunchy, like crispy breadsticks or a simple caesar salad.