1. **Cook the pasta**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. **Brown the beef**: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and soft, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. **Make the sauce**: Add the tomato paste to the beef mixture, stirring for 1-2 minutes to combine. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir well, and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. **Add cream and cheese**: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Combine with pasta**: Add the drained pasta shells to the skillet, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy beef sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld.
6. **Serve**: Spoon the creamy beef and shells onto plates or into a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Creamy Beef and Shells is a rich, savory dish that combines tender pasta with a velvety beef and cheese sauce. The beef is sautéed with onions and garlic, then simmered with tomatoes, broth, and seasonings to create a flavorful base. The addition of heavy cream and two types of cheese makes the sauce irresistibly smooth and comforting. The large pasta shells provide the perfect vessel to hold the creamy sauce, making each bite satisfying and filling. This dish strikes a balance between a hearty beef stew and a creamy pasta bake, making it a versatile and popular choice for families.
– **Calories**: ~450 kcal
– **Protein**: 28g
– **Carbohydrates**: 30g
– **Fat**: 28g
– **Saturated Fat**: 12g
– **Cholesterol**: 60mg
– **Sodium**: 600mg
– **Fiber**: 2g
– **Sugar**: 4g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting and filling dish that brings together the best of both pasta and meat. The creamy sauce, combined with the savory beef and tender pasta shells, makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The dish is easily customizable, allowing for a variety of additions to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
For a complete meal, pair Creamy Beef and Shells with a light side salad and some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. This dish is a great choice for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings, as it’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to please everyone at the table.
While this dish is indulgent, you can make it healthier by using lean ground beef or ground turkey, opting for reduced-fat cheese, and adding extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. By making small adjustments, you can embrace the comfort of this creamy dish while still keeping it on the lighter side. Enjoy the richness of the flavors without compromising on the joy of a wholesome meal!
