Name: Creamy Beef and Shells
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces medium pasta shells; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 medium sweet onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef stock; 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce; 3/4 cup heavy cream; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 6 ounces shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 1/2 cups)

Why You’ll Love Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

Creamy Beef and Shells is a family favorite for a reason. It’s simple to make, loaded with hearty ingredients, and packed with bold, comforting flavors. The creamy tomato sauce coats each pasta shell perfectly, while the melted extra-sharp cheddar adds a tangy, cheesy finish. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hungry teens, this dish always hits the spot.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 ounces medium pasta shells
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1/2 medium sweet onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef stock
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
3/4 cup heavy cream
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
6 ounces shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 1/2 cups)

Directions

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for 3-5 minutes until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set beef aside.
In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Add garlic and Italian seasoning, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until lightly browned.
Gradually whisk in beef stock and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in cooked pasta, browned beef, and heavy cream. Heat through for 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and fully combined, about 2 minutes.
Serve hot, with optional garnishes like fresh parsley or grated Parmesan.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the onions.
Vegetable boost: Stir in baby spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Swap the protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used instead of beef.
Cheese options: Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Low-carb version: Replace pasta shells with steamed cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

How do I keep the sauce from separating when reheating?

Add a splash of cream or milk while reheating and stir gently to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells?

Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini all work well as substitutes for shell pasta.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like it spicy.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the dish, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomato sauce?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook them down to a sauce-like consistency first.

What kind of beef should I use?

Lean ground beef (85% or higher) works best to reduce excess grease while still keeping the dish flavorful.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour alternative for the thickening step.

Is this kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta make it a hit with kids.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is a delicious, satisfying meal that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish offers comfort, convenience, and endless possibilities for customization. Try it once, and it’s bound to become a staple on your dinner table.