Description
This Easy Creamy Beef and Shells recipe combines tender pasta shells with a rich, flavorful beef and tomato sauce, enhanced by a touch of cream for a smooth finish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting weeknight meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces medium uncooked shells
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 (14 ounce) can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/3 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook the shells until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes. Allow some browning for added flavor.
- Cook the Beef: Add the lean ground beef to the skillet. Brown the meat thoroughly by breaking it up with a spoon for approximately 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and chili powder to the beef mixture, cooking briefly to release their aromas.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir well and reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce reduce slightly over 4-5 minutes, ensuring it does not dry out.
- Add Cream and Season: Stir in the heavy cream and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the cream to warm through.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked and drained pasta shells into the creamy beef sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the creamy beef and shells hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a leaner option, use extra-lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
- To add more vegetables, consider incorporating chopped bell peppers or mushrooms during the sauté step.
- Adjust chili powder to your heat preference; add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra spice.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary modifications as needed.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
