Name: Creamy Beef and Shells
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz medium pasta shells; 1 lb ground beef; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 ½ cups beef broth; ¾ cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Get ready for the ultimate comfort food: Creamy Beef and Shells. This hearty, one-skillet dinner brings together tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, velvety tomato cream sauce that clings to every bite. It’s the kind of meal that makes you close your eyes with the first spoonful, packed with cozy, familiar flavors and ready in under 30 minutes.

Perfect for weeknights, this dish is family-friendly, fuss-free, and completely satisfying. It tastes like something you’d find at a diner or a favorite homestyle restaurant, but it’s even better homemade. Plus, cleanup is a breeze with just one pan.

What Kind of Pasta Shells Should I Use?

Medium pasta shells work best here. Their curved shape catches the beefy, cheesy sauce beautifully, creating pockets of creamy flavor in every bite. You could substitute with penne or rotini if needed, but shells are ideal for the ultimate texture and sauce hold.

Ingredients for the Creamy Beef and Shells

Ground Beef – The heart of the dish. Use lean ground beef for a hearty and meaty flavor without excess grease.

Pasta Shells – Medium shells are the perfect pasta shape to hug the creamy sauce and deliver full flavor.

Tomato Paste – Adds depth and a touch of sweetness to balance the cream.

Beef Broth – Enhances the meatiness and helps form the savory base of the sauce.

Heavy Cream – Creates the signature velvety richness that makes this dish indulgent and cozy.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the sauce, giving it a cheesy, gooey finish.

Italian Seasoning & Garlic Powder – Layers of flavor that bring the dish to life without extra fuss.

Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.

How To Make the Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat, if any.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the tomato paste to deepen in flavor.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the mixture to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Meanwhile, cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until everything is well coated in the creamy beef sauce. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Beef and Shells

Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra shredded cheese if desired. It’s best right off the stove, but leftovers are just as delicious.

To store, cool completely and place in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

What to Serve With Creamy Beef and Shells?

Garlic Bread

A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect scoop for extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

Its crisp texture and tangy dressing add freshness to balance the richness.

Steamed Broccoli

Bright, simple veggies make a great side for this hearty main.

Roasted Green Beans

Roast them with olive oil and salt for a quick and flavorful pairing.

Simple Cucumber Salad

Refreshing and light, this adds a cool crunch to your plate.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Double down on comfort with another savory side.

Buttery Corn on the Cob

Sweet and juicy corn brings summery vibes to this cozy dinner.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Creamy Beef and Shells made you crave more pasta, check out these rich and flavorful favorites:

Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a silky, quick weeknight meal.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you’re craving that melty, cheesy comfort.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta with a white sauce twist.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole if you want an oven-baked dinner classic.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for a smoky, savory option.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or spice it up with chili flakes? Maybe sneak in some spinach?

I love hearing your twists on comfort food classics. Questions welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, easier meals every day.

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