Creamy Beef and Shells

As the delightful aroma of simmering garlic and onions fills the kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat with a comforting bowl of Creamy Beef and Shells. This recipe comes together in just under 30 minutes and promises a rich, creamy texture combined with the hearty satisfaction of beef and pasta. It works beautifully for busy weeknights when you want a meal that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare.

This recipe is perfect for families looking for a quick and delicious dinner option or for anyone craving a comforting pasta dish. Consider making it on a chilly evening when you need a warm hug in a bowl. Leftovers last well, so you can store any extras for an easy lunch the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy sauce envelops the pasta, creating a wonderfully comforting dish.
• It comes together in under 30 minutes, a perfect choice for busy evenings.
• The use of just one skillet minimizes cleanup, making cooking a breeze.
• The combination of spices adds depth and richness to a classic meal.

What You’ll Need

Gather the ingredients listed below to make this creamy pasta dish.

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells

For the Beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small sweet onion, diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced

For the Sauce

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef stock
• 1 (15oz can) marinara sauce
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sour cream

For Serving

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, freshly grated

Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground beef can be swapped for turkey or chicken.
• Use vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
• Sour cream can be replaced with Greek yogurt.
• Fresh herbs can replace dried for bolder flavor.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Beef and Shells.

Cook pasta

Boil salted water in a large pot, add pasta shells, and cook according to package instructions. Drain well.

Brown beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, breaking it with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat and set aside.

Sauté onions and garlic

In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Whisk in flour

Whisk in flour until lightly browned, for about 1 minute.

Add beef stock

Gradually whisk in beef stock and stir to combine. Add marinara sauce and stir in Italian seasoning, dried parsley, oregano, and paprika.

Simmer sauce

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced and slightly thickened, about 6-8 minutes.

Combine pasta and beef

Stir in cooked pasta and add back beef.

Mix in cream

Next, stir in heavy cream until heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Taste and adjust for salt and pepper.

Stir in sour cream

After that, stir in the sour cream.

Fold in cheese

Finally, fold in the cheddar cheese until melted, about 1-2 minutes. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if you’d like.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, heavy cream does not freeze well.
Reheat: Use the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the beef is well-browned for maximum flavor.
• Don’t skip the simmering step; it thickens the sauce beautifully.
• Stir in cheese off the heat for optimal melting.
• Adjust seasonings to taste before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh garden salad and crusty bread.
• Serve alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
• Great for weeknight family dinners or cozy gatherings.