Creamy Beef and Shells

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking

This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe combines savory ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce for a comforting meal the whole family will love. Perfectly seasoned and easy to whip up in one pot, it’s a satisfying dish that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-24T06:26:20.891Z

This is a story about how Creamy Beef and Shells became a family favorite.

A Comforting Delight

Creamy Beef and Shells is a dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia. The combination of ground beef and shell pasta smothered in a luxurious cheese sauce offers a comforting experience that is hard to resist. As the creamy sauce envelops the tender pasta, your taste buds are treated to a rich symphony of flavors that transforms a simple meal into a heartfelt family favorite.

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. With each bite, you’ll discover the perfect balance of protein and carbs, providing you with the energy you need for busy evenings. Plus, its one-pot nature means less cleanup, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones.

Versatile and Easy

One of the standout features of this Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For example, using ground turkey or adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can elevate the nutritional profile without sacrificing flavor. This adaptability makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it's a weeknight family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

In addition, the preparation is straightforward and quick. This means you can easily whip up this meal even after a long day at work. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty dish ready to satisfy even the pickiest eaters at your table.

Kid-Friendly Choice

Getting kids to eat healthy meals can often be a challenge. However, the appealing presentation and fun shape of the pasta shells in this recipe are sure to win over even the fussiest of eaters. The creamy texture and rich flavor make it a dish that children will look forward to returning to time and time again.

In addition, this creamy beef and shells dish offers a great way to introduce other flavors and ingredients. You can add hidden veggies to the cheese sauce or serve with a side salad, ensuring a well-rounded and nutritious meal without a fuss. Parents can take comfort in knowing that their children are eating something filling and wholesome.

Ingredients

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 8 oz pasta shells
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all of your ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smoother experience.

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Cook the Beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add Ingredients

Stir in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until tender.

Make it Creamy

Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and combined.

Serve and Enjoy

Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm. Enjoy your creamy beef and shells!

Let each serving cool for a couple of minutes before enjoying.

Nutritional Highlights

This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a great source of protein, providing a hearty serving that supports muscle growth and repair. The added heavy cream and cheese contribute calcium and healthy fats that are essential for bone health. While it's a comfort dish, modifying ingredient ratios can easily help accommodate health goals, making it an intelligent addition to your meal plan.

It's important to note that this dish can be made healthier by using low-fat dairy options or whole-grain pasta. Such adjustments can significantly enhance its nutritional value while still ensuring a satisfying meal experience.

Perfect Pairings

When serving Creamy Beef and Shells, consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad topped with a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meal, balancing flavors and enhancing your dining experience. You might also opt for garlic bread on the side to soak up the cheesy sauce, making every bite that much more enjoyable.

For those who appreciate a little heat, adding a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper can elevate the flavors further. Experimenting with these pairings opens up new avenues of taste, ensuring that you'll never tire of this delightful dish.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef.

→ How can I make this dish spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the recipe.

Creamy Beef and Shells

This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe combines savory ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce for a comforting meal the whole family will love. Perfectly seasoned and easy to whip up in one pot, it’s a satisfying dish that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Classic Comfort Cooking

Skill Level: easy

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Main Ingredients

  1. 1 lb ground beef
  2. 8 oz pasta shells
  3. 2 cups beef broth
  4. 1 cup heavy cream
  5. 1 cup shredded cheese
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Step 02

Stir in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook until tender.

Step 03

Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until melted and combined.

Step 04

Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm. Enjoy your creamy beef and shells!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 20g