Hey busy parents! If you’re looking for a quick, comforting meal, this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is your answer. It’s a hearty, cheesy dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknights.

As a parent, I know the struggle of getting dinner on the table fast. This recipe is a lifesaver with minimal prep and ingredients you likely already have. It’s a family favorite that even picky eaters adore!

Let’s dive into making this delicious meal. With simple steps and a creamy, flavorful sauce, your family will be asking for seconds. Stick with me to learn how to whip up this easy dinner tonight!

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Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for Busy Nights

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👨‍🍳 Author: Asher Vaughn

🌍 Cuisine: General

🍰 Category: Pasta

Ingredients:

01

8 oz medium pasta shells

02

1 lb ground beef (ensure it’s halal-certified)

03

1 small onion, finely chopped

04

2 cloves garlic, minced

05

1 tbsp olive oil

06

1 tsp Italian seasoning

07

1/2 tsp paprika

08

1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)

09

1/4 tsp black pepper

10

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

11

2 cups beef broth (ensure it’s halal-certified)

12

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

13

3/4 cup heavy cream

14

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

15

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 01

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

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 03

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 04

Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and flour. Cook for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 05

Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and add the cooked pasta shells. Mix well to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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Delicious Creamy Beef and Shells

Why You’ll Love Creamy Beef and Shells

Busy parents, this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a game-changer for dinner time. It combines comfort food vibes with quick prep, making it ideal for chaotic evenings. Here’s why it’s a must-try for your family meals!

• Super Fast: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into tight schedules without sacrificing taste.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, creamy sauce and tender pasta shells are a hit with kids of all ages.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples, so you don’t need to splurge on fancy ingredients.
• Versatile Meal: Easily tweak it with veggies or different cheeses to suit your family’s preferences.

Ingredients for Creamy Beef and Shells

Let’s gather what you need for this tasty dish. These ingredients are simple, budget-friendly, and likely already in your kitchen, making it a breeze for busy parents to prepare.

• 8 oz medium pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef (ensure it’s halal-certified)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth (ensure it’s halal-certified)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Important Ingredient Notes:
• Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor.
• Opt for fresh shredded cheese for melting.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Making this dish is straightforward, even on the busiest of nights. Follow these easy steps to create a comforting meal your family will love in no time.

• Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
• Stir in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and flour. Cook for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
• Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and add the cooked pasta shells. Mix well to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Expert Tips

Here are some handy tips to make your dish even better, tailored for busy parents looking for quick fixes.

• Pasta Texture: Cook pasta al dente to avoid sogginess when mixed with sauce. It’ll soak up flavors without turning mushy.
• Beef Choice: Stick to 80/20 ground beef for a juicy, flavorful result. Drain excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the beef and sauce in advance. Store in the fridge and reheat with freshly cooked pasta for a fast meal.

Variations & Alternatives

Switch things up with these easy tweaks to keep dinner exciting. These variations are perfect for using what you have or catering to different tastes.

If you’re interested in more recipes, feel free to follow me on Facebook, Pinterest or Instagram!

• Turkey Swap: Replace ground beef with turkey for a leaner option. It’s just as tasty and cooks the same way in the skillet.
• Veggie Boost: Add spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrition. Toss them in during the simmering step.
• Cheese Mix: Try mozzarella or parmesan instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile. Mix and match based on preference.

What to Serve With It

Pair your Creamy Beef and Shells with these simple sides to round out the meal. They’re quick to whip up and complement the dish perfectly.

• Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
• Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light dressing cuts through the richness. Toss together lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes in minutes.
• Steamed Broccoli: Quick to cook and nutritious, broccoli adds a pop of color and balances the hearty pasta dish nicely.

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