Name: Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz medium pasta shells; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

There’s something about a warm, hearty bowl of creamy beef and shells that brings ultimate comfort. The rich, cheesy sauce clings to the tender pasta shells, while the seasoned ground beef adds a satisfying depth of flavor. It’s a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl—perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, delicious meal that the whole family will love.

I love how this recipe comes together in just one pan, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. The combination of tomatoes, heavy cream, and cheese creates a velvety sauce that coats every bite. Whether you’re cooking for kids or simply craving a nostalgic, homey dish, this creamy beef and shells recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Shells

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means less cleanup!
Rich & Creamy: A luscious sauce that clings to every shell.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this comforting meal.
Customizable: Easy to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

For this recipe, I love using medium pasta shells because they hold onto the creamy sauce so well, trapping all that delicious flavor in every bite. However, if you don’t have shells on hand, don’t worry! Other great options include elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne. The key is choosing a pasta shape that has nooks and crannies to capture the sauce, making every forkful extra satisfying.

Options for Substitutions

One of the best things about creamy beef and shells is how easy it is to adapt to what you have in your kitchen. Here are some simple swaps:

Ground Beef: Swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a different flavor.
Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.
Cheddar Cheese: Feel free to use mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
Tomatoes: If you’re out of canned tomatoes, tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes work well too.
Broth: Chicken broth can replace beef broth if that’s what you have.

No matter how you tweak it, this dish will always be creamy, hearty, and delicious!

Ingredients for This Creamy Beef and Shells

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the rich, comforting flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Pasta Shells: The perfect shape to trap the creamy sauce, making every bite flavorful.
Ground Beef: Adds heartiness and a deep, savory flavor to the dish.
Onion & Garlic: These aromatics enhance the overall taste, adding depth and warmth.
Diced Tomatoes: Brings a slight tanginess that balances the richness of the sauce.
Tomato Sauce: Helps create a velvety, flavorful base for the creamy mixture.
Beef Broth: Adds depth and enhances the meaty flavors of the dish.
Heavy Cream: The key to achieving that luscious, creamy texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce, making it extra indulgent.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties all the flavors together.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in each ingredient.
Olive Oil: Used to sauté the aromatics and beef for a rich, delicious base.

These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s cozy, creamy, and packed with flavor.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onion and garlic to the pan with the beef. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and the onions become soft.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Add the Cheese & Pasta

Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and fully incorporated. Then, add the cooked pasta shells and stir until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy beef and shells!

How Long to Cook the Creamy Beef and Shells

This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy nights. Here’s a general breakdown of the cooking times:

Pasta: 8-10 minutes (or according to package instructions)
Browning the Beef: 5-7 minutes
Sautéing Aromatics & Simmering Sauce: 10 minutes
Adding Cream & Cheese: 3-5 minutes
Final Assembly: 2 minutes

In total, you’ll have a delicious, creamy beef and shells dish on the table in under 30 minutes!

Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef and Shells

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will be stirred into the sauce at the end, cook it until just al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Drain the Beef If Necessary: If your ground beef releases too much grease, drain the excess to keep the sauce from becoming oily.
Simmer for Maximum Flavor: Letting the sauce simmer allows the flavors to deepen and blend beautifully.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy. Grating your own cheese ensures a smoother, creamier texture.
Adjust the Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
Season to Taste: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed for the perfect balance.

Following these tips will help you create a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish every time!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is simple, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to avoid:

Overcooking the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the sauce, stop cooking when it’s al dente to avoid mushy shells.
Skipping the Simmering Step: Letting the sauce simmer helps the flavors meld together. Rushing this step can result in a bland dish.
Adding Cheese Too Quickly: Stir the cheese in gradually over low heat to prevent it from clumping or becoming grainy.
Using Low-Fat Dairy: Heavy cream creates the best texture. If using milk, expect a thinner sauce.
Not Draining Excess Grease: If your ground beef releases a lot of fat, drain it before adding the other ingredients to keep the sauce from being too oily.
Forgetting to Season Properly: Taste as you go! A little extra salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning can make a big difference.

Avoiding these mistakes will ensure a rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced dish every time.

What to Serve With Creamy Beef and Shells?

This hearty dish is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

🥖 Garlic Bread

A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

🥗 Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with a tangy dressing balances the richness of the dish.

🥦 Roasted Vegetables

Roasted broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus add a fresh and healthy contrast.

🍞 Dinner Rolls

Soft, fluffy dinner rolls make a great side for scooping up every bit of sauce.

🥒 Cucumber Tomato Salad

A refreshing cucumber and tomato salad with a light vinaigrette keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.

🧄 Sautéed Spinach

A quick garlic sautéed spinach adds a nutritious and flavorful side.

🍲 Soup

A simple soup like minestrone or tomato basil complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

🥔 Mashed Potatoes

If you want an ultra-comforting meal, serving this pasta with a side of creamy mashed potatoes is a winning choice.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, you’ll be happy to know that creamy beef and shells stores well and reheats beautifully.

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but keep in mind that creamy sauces can sometimes separate. If freezing, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Estimated Nutrition

While exact values depend on portion size and ingredient brands, here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

Calories: ~500-600 kcal
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~45g
Fat: ~30g
Saturated Fat: ~15g
Fiber: ~3g
Sodium: ~800mg

For a lighter version, you can use lean ground beef, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, and use whole wheat pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

🤔 Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.

🧀 Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar gives a rich, sharp flavor, you can substitute mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even Parmesan for a different twist.

🍝 What if I don’t have pasta shells?

No problem! You can use elbow macaroni, rotini, penne, or any pasta that holds sauce well.

🥩 Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage all work well in place of ground beef.

🥛 Can I make this without heavy cream?

If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.

🍅 Can I skip the diced tomatoes?

You can, but the tomatoes add a nice tangy balance. If you prefer a smoother sauce, try using extra tomato sauce instead.

🥘 How do I thicken the sauce?

If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce. You can also stir in a little extra cheese or a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

❄️ Can I freeze creamy beef and shells?

Yes! Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop with a little extra liquid to restore the creamy texture.

Conclusion

This creamy beef and shells recipe is the ultimate comfort food—quick, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your family and friends so they can enjoy it too!