Creamy Beef and Shells
Introduction
Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines tender pasta shells with a rich beef and cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal with family, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings both flavor and satisfaction to your table. The creamy texture and savory beef create a delightful harmony that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Pasta shells: 8 oz
– Ground beef: 1 lb
– Onion: 1 medium, diced
– Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
– Beef broth: 1 cup
– Heavy cream: 1 cup
– Cream cheese: 4 oz, softened
– Seasoned salt: 1 tsp
– Black pepper: to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup
– Fresh parsley: for garnish (optional)
Prep Time
The prep time for this delicious dish is approximately 10 minutes. With just a few simple steps to get everything ready, you’ll be on your way to a satisfying meal in no time.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for Creamy Beef and Shells is about 20 minutes. When combined with the prep time, the total time from start to finish is around 30 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it a perfect option for families or for meal prep throughout the week. Enjoy the creamy goodness!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the shell pasta and cook it according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Make sure to drain any excess fat afterward.
Add Aromatics
To the browned beef, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for a few minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
Add Seasonings
Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Add Tomato Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Cream
Reduce the heat and add heavy cream to the skillet. Mix thoroughly until well combined and heated through.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked shell pasta to the creamy beef mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the creamy beef and shells immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Substitution Options
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter option.
Make It Spicy
For a spicy kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the beef while it’s cooking.
Vegetarian Version
To make this dish vegetarian, use a meat substitute like lentils or crumbled tofu in place of the ground beef.
Cheese Addition
Feel free to mix in shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, for added creaminess and flavor.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Cooking pasta until it is al dente involves boiling it in salted water for the recommended time indicated on the package. This ensures the pasta maintains a slight firmness when bitten.
Searing Ground Beef
Searing ground beef involves cooking it in a hot skillet until browned. This process enhances the flavor through the Maillard reaction, creating a rich and savory taste.
Deglazing the Pan
Deglazing the pan is done by adding a liquid, such as broth or cream, to a hot skillet after cooking meat. This helps to lift the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan, enriching the sauce.
Making a Cream Sauce
To make a cream sauce, combine cooked ingredients with heavy cream in a skillet, allowing it to simmer until thickened. This creates a luscious and rich texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
Combining Ingredients
Combining cooked pasta with a sauce involves gently tossing the two together in the skillet to ensure even coating without breaking the pasta shells.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute other types of pasta for shells, but cooking times may vary.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based proteins as alternatives.
How can I make it spicier?
To add spice, you can include red pepper flakes or other spicy seasonings to the dish.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.
What should I serve with creamy beef and shells?
A side of garlic bread or a fresh salad complements this dish well.
Conclusion
This creamy beef and shells recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines hearty beef, tender pasta shells, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for families or those looking for quick dinner solutions. The combination of flavors creates a delicious blend that is sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
Try replacing the beef with chicken and adding broccoli for a creamy, cheesy dish that packs in added nutrition.
Vegetable Shells
Swap out the meat for a mix of your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Beef Tacos
Use the same flavorful beef mixture for tacos, adding fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado for a fun variation.
One-Pot Beef Stroganoff Pasta
Transform the dish into a stroganoff by incorporating mushrooms and sour cream, offering a delightful twist to the original recipe.
Beef and Cheese Stuffed Shells
Stuff the pasta shells with a blend of seasoned ground beef and creamy cheese for a baked variation that can be topped with marinara sauce.
