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Creamy Beef and Shells

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  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One Pot/One Pan
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Creamy Beef and Shells is a cozy, family-friendly dinner made with ground beef, pasta shells, and a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce. It comes together quickly in one pan, making it perfect for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor.


Ingredients

  • 8 oz medium pasta shells

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 small yellow onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

  • 3/4 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

  3. Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.

  4. Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

  5. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

  6. Gradually pour in beef broth and stir to combine. Add tomato sauce and bring to a simmer.

  7. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

  8. Add in the cooked pasta, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan. Stir until cheese is melted and everything is well combined.

  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.


Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if preferred.

  • For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1¼ cups
  • Calories: 615
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 17g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 46g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 33g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg