Creamy Beef and Shells

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Creamy Beef and Shells is the kind of comfort food that wraps you in a hug after a long day. Rich, hearty, and full of savory flavors, it delivers on the promise of a fast, delicious meal that tastes like it took all day. The creamy sauce clings to every shell, the beef is perfectly seasoned, and the entire dish is ready in under 30 minutes.

It’s a family-favorite weeknight meal that’s budget-friendly and easily customizable. Whether you’re serving picky eaters or just need something cozy and filling on a chilly evening, this recipe fits the bill. No fancy ingredients or complicated techniques—just simple, satisfying food done right.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Shells

This meal is all about balance: creamy but not too heavy, meaty yet still kid-approved, and super easy to make on a busy night. It reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers or meal prep. Plus, you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry and fridge. What’s not to love?

What Kind of Pasta Shells Should I Use?

Medium pasta shells work best for this dish because they trap the sauce and bits of ground beef perfectly. You can use small shells in a pinch, but avoid jumbo ones as they overpower the texture of the dish. If you’re out of shells, elbow macaroni or rotini are good backups. Just make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold up in the creamy sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Beef and Shells

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something important to the table, and together they create that luscious, savory flavor you crave.

• Ground beef
• Medium pasta shells
• Yellow onion
• Garlic cloves
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth
• Heavy cream
• Cheddar cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning
• All-purpose flour

The beef provides richness and heartiness. Pasta shells are ideal for catching all the creamy sauce. Onion and garlic lay down a flavorful base, while tomato paste adds a subtle depth. Broth and cream combine into a velvety sauce, and cheddar gives it that irresistible cheesiness. A touch of flour thickens it just right, and the spices bring everything to life.

How To Make the Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

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

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Saute Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce Base

Stir in tomato paste and cook for a minute to deepen the flavor. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute to remove the raw taste.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Once it starts to simmer, add the heavy cream, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer gently until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked ground beef back to the skillet. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the drained pasta shells and stir until everything is well coated.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Spoon into bowls while it’s still hot and creamy. Garnish with more cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

Serving and Storing Creamy Beef and Shells

This recipe comfortably feeds 4 to 5 people as a main course. Serve it hot right out of the pan with your favorite side or on its own as a one-bowl wonder.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though fresh is always best.

What to Serve With Creamy Beef and Shells?

Garlic Bread

The buttery crunch of garlic bread is a classic companion. It soaks up the extra sauce perfectly.

Caesar Salad

The crisp lettuce and tangy dressing cut through the richness of the dish.

Roasted Broccoli

A simple roasted vegetable brings balance and a pop of green.

Steamed Green Beans

Lightly seasoned green beans offer freshness without overpowering the meal.

Grilled Zucchini

Grilled slices with a touch of olive oil and herbs work beautifully alongside the creamy pasta.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Bright, juicy, and refreshing—this cold salad adds contrast to the warm main dish.

Crusty Baguette

A rustic loaf torn into chunks is ideal for mopping up the last bit of sauce.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

A little fizz with citrus cuts through the creamy richness and refreshes the palate.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love the cozy feel of Creamy Beef and Shells, check out some of Luna Meals’ other satisfying pasta creations:

• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli Recipe is an elegant yet easy choice for mushroom lovers.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta adds a fun, flavorful twist.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe brings a spicy Southern kick.
• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni is full of savory boldness.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can always come back when the craving hits.

Did you spice yours up or keep it classic? Maybe you added mushrooms or swapped cheeses? Share your take in the comments below—I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

Explore beautifully curated comfort dishes and pasta recipes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and find your next favorite meal inspiration.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is the kind of dish that never goes out of style. It’s quick, rich, and endlessly comforting—perfect for weeknights or when you need something reliably good. Make a double batch, share with friends, or freeze some for later. Once you make it, it just might become your new go-to dinner hero.

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