Amid the hustle of a busy week, I often catch myself craving a meal that wraps me in a warm embrace—something quick yet comforting. That’s where Creamy Beef and Shells comes in! This 20-minute meal combines ground beef with pasta shells in a rich, cheesy sauce that satisfies both my taste buds and my desire for efficiency. The delightful blend of sweet red bell pepper and Italian seasoning makes it a solid choice for the family, ensuring everyone walks away with a smile. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to gather everyone around the table on those hectic evenings. Curious about how to whip up this creamy delight? Let’s dive in!
Why choose Creamy Beef and Shells?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect fit for busy weeknights.
Rich, comforting flavors: The combination of creamy sauce, ground beef, and savory Italian seasoning brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, this dish dazzles with its irresistible taste and hearty nature.
Versatile options: Easily adapt this recipe by swapping out beef for ground turkey or mixing in veggies like spinach for added nutrition.
Less mess: With a one-pan technique, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying delicious meals—similar to what you’d find in a Crockpot Beef Noodles recipe.
Perfect side pairings: Serve it alongside a crisp Caesar Salad or honey roasted carrots to round out the meal and elevate your dining experience!
Creamy Beef and Shells Ingredients
• Prepare this dish with ease using delightful ingredients.
For the Pasta
- Medium pasta shells – Perfect for holding the creamy sauce; substitute with any medium pasta in a pinch.
For the Beef Mixture
- Ground beef – Provides a hearty base; for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken.
- Red bell pepper – Adds sweetness and a pop of color; feel free to swap for green bell pepper for a different flavor or omit.
- Onion – Enhances flavor; yellow or white onions work beautifully if red isn’t on hand.
- Garlic – Infuses depth; fresh garlic is ideal, but powdered garlic can work too.
- Italian seasoning – Key for authentic taste; adjust to your preference or use a mix of dried basil and oregano.
- Salt & Black pepper – Elevate the overall flavor; use sea salt and freshly cracked pepper for the best results.
For the Sauce
- Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt – Adds rich flavor and smoothness; any butter alternative can work if needed.
- All-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce nicely; swap it for cornstarch if you need a gluten-free option.
- Beef broth – Forms the flavorful sauce base; vegetable broth can be a good substitute for a vegetarian twist.
- Sour cream – Creates that creamy texture and tang; plain Greek yogurt is a stellar alternative if desired.
- Mild cheddar cheese – Melts into the sauce, offering a delicious cheesy taste; feel free to switch for Colby jack or Monterey Jack for variety.
- Chopped parsley – Brightens the dish and adds a fresh touch; optional if not available.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Beef and Shells
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the medium pasta shells and cook according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until they are al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, ensuring the shells are not overcooked so they hold their shape in the Creamy Beef and Shells dish.
Step 2: Brown the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef along with diced red bell pepper and chopped onion. Cook for around 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender; be sure there is no pink left in the meat. Drain any excess fat to keep your Creamy Beef and Shells light.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Seasoning
Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and black pepper into the beef mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the flavors to meld. This step is key for enhancing the savory taste of your Creamy Beef and Shells, making sure each bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
Add the Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil & Sea Salt to the skillet, allowing it to melt completely, which should take about 1 minute. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour until combined, cooking for another minute until the mixture is slightly golden. This roux will help thicken the creamy sauce that binds the ingredients in your Creamy Beef and Shells.
Step 5: Stir in the Broth
Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring continuously to avoid any lumps from forming. Continue to cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. You want a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon, ensuring your Creamy Beef and Shells has a rich, velvety texture.
Step 6: Add the Creaminess
Lower the heat to medium and stir in the sour cream and shredded mild cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted completely into the sauce, creating a creamy and luscious consistency that envelops the beef mixture. This step brings the special comfort to your Creamy Beef and Shells, making it irresistibly delicious.
Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Gently fold in the cooked pasta shells, making sure they’re well coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly together. This is the final touch to bring your Creamy Beef and Shells to life and create a harmonious dish the entire family will love.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and added freshness, if desired. Serve your Creamy Beef and Shells warm, enjoying every comforting bite that is sure to satisfy both your hunger and your heart.
Creamy Beef and Shells Variations
Feel free to personalize your dish with these fun ideas that spark creativity and flavor!
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Lean Option: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist that still maintains flavor.
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Vegetable Boost: Add cooked spinach, mushrooms, or frozen peas for a nutritious pop, enhancing both flavor and texture.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a little heat; it creates an exciting contrast with the creamy sauce.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Swap mild cheddar for a combination of Colby jack or Monterey Jack cheese to give the sauce a different tangy note.
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Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for a smooth, thickened sauce while keeping it gluten-friendly—perfect for those needing dietary adaptations.
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Creamy Alternative: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a protein boost while still achieving that desired creaminess.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley; their vibrant flavors elevate your Creamy Beef and Shells to a whole new level.
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Snack-Worthy Twist: Transform it into a hearty casserole. Layer in a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs or more cheese, then bake for that ultimate comfort food vibe.
Get inspired and make this dish your own, just like with our delicious Chicken Broccoli Bowls or One Pot Beef for another weeknight favorite!
Expert Tips for Creamy Beef and Shells
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Brown the Beef Well: Take the time to brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked and caramelized; this adds rich flavor to your Creamy Beef and Shells.
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Avoid Lumps: Stir the sauce continuously after adding beef broth to ensure a smooth consistency; it’s key to preventing lumps from the flour.
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Season with Care: Taste your broth beforehand; if it’s salted, adjust your added salt accordingly to avoid over-seasoning the dish.
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Reserve Pasta Water: If your sauce thickens up during cooking, reserve a bit of pasta water to thin it out for that perfectly creamy texture in your Creamy Beef and Shells.
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Mix in Greens: For a nutritional boost, feel free to add cooked spinach or peas; they blend beautifully and enhance the dish without overpowering the flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Beef and Shells
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the creamy texture intact for your next meal.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Remember to add a splash of broth upon reheating to restore the creaminess.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add some broth if the sauce seems too thick.
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Freshness Tip: Avoid freezing if you’ve added dairy toppings like sour cream or cheese; they can alter in texture when thawed. Enjoy your creamy beef and shells freshly made for the best taste!
What to Serve with Creamy Beef and Shells?
Looking to elevate your dining experience? Pairing the right sides with this creamy delight can turn a simple meal into a feast!
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Caesar Salad: A crunchy Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty pasta. It’s the perfect starter to balance flavors.
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Honey Roasted Carrots: Sweet and tender honey-roasted carrots bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color, making the plate more appealing and nutritious.
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Garlic Bread: Serving buttery garlic bread on the side allows for some delicious dipping into that rich sauce, making for a fun and comforting touch!
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Steam Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a pop of color while adding essential nutrients to your meal. Its mild flavor complements the creamy dish beautifully.
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Creamy Mushroom Risotto: For a richer option, creamy mushroom risotto offers an earthy taste that pairs perfectly with beef and adds a luxurious texture to your plate.
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Wine Pairing: A glass of lightly chilled Cabernet Sauvignon can enhance the meal’s comforting vibe, beautifully complementing the savory notes of the ground beef.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish off your dinner with a decadent chocolate mousse. Its rich, velvety texture creates a delightful end to a comforting evening.
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Lemon Sorbet: If you prefer something lighter, lemon sorbet is a refreshing way to cleanse the palate and cleanse the flavors after that creamy beef and shells.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Creamy Beef and Shells ahead of time is a fantastic way to streamline your busy week! You can cook the pasta shells and brown the ground beef mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the pasta in an airtight container and the beef mixture in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, ensure both components are cooled completely before sealing. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the beef mixture gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if needed. Then, stir in the sour cream and cheese, and fold in the pasta shells. This meal will taste just as delicious while saving you valuable time during the week!
Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for Creamy Beef and Shells?
Absolutely! For the freshest results, choose medium pasta shells that are firm and not broken. Look for ground beef that is bright red with minimal visible fat. When selecting red bell peppers, opt for those that are firm, wrinkle-free, and have vibrant color—avoid any with dark spots, as they may be overripe. Similarly, choose onions that are dry and have no soft spots, as this indicates freshness.
How should I store leftovers of Creamy Beef and Shells?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This way, the creamy texture remains intact, ready for you to enjoy again. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to keep it fresh!
Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells?
Certainly! If you want to enjoy this comforting dish later, freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply reheat it gently on the stove over low heat. It’s a good idea to add a splash of broth to regain its creamy texture if it seems too thick after thawing.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for making Creamy Beef and Shells?
If you find that your sauce is too thick, a simple remedy is to add a bit of reserved pasta water or more beef broth, stirring until the desired consistency is achieved. Meanwhile, to avoid lumps when adding flour, whisk it in quickly without stopping to stir. Additionally, ensure your beef is fully browned and drained of excess fat; this will greatly enhance the flavors in your dish.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for Creamy Beef and Shells?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, like gluten intolerance, you can easily swap out the all-purpose flour for cornstarch to thicken your sauce. When it comes to protein, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully as a lean alternative to ground beef. For those who are vegan or vegetarian, consider using a plant-based ground meat substitute and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Can my pet eat leftovers from Creamy Beef and Shells?
It’s best to avoid sharing this dish with pets, especially because of the ingredients like garlic and onions, which can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always keep any pet meals focused on their specific dietary needs for their health and safety.
Creamy Beef and Shells: Your 20-Minute Comfort Food Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the medium pasta shells according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, diced red bell pepper, and chopped onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and vegetables are tender. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant.
- Add Land O Lakes Butter and melt completely. Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for another minute until slightly golden.
- Gradually pour in beef broth, stirring to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Lower the heat and stir in sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Gently fold in the cooked pasta shells, ensuring they are well coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
