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A delicious bowl of Creamy Beef and Shells - Sweet and Savory Meals topped with fresh herbs and served as a comforting main dinner dish.

Creamy Beef and Shells - Sweet and Savory Meals

This ultimate one-pot comfort food perfectly bridges childhood nostalgia with gourmet flavor, combining lean ground beef and medium pasta shells in a velvety, cheesy sauce. It is a reliable, hearty weeknight staple designed for minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Lean ground beef
  • 1 Onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 cups Low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 cup Heavy cream
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil for sautéing
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Box grater
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
  3. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
  4. Add the diced onion to the beef and cook until softened and translucent.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the beef broth and add the dry pasta shells; ensure the shells are fully submerged in the liquid.
  7. Cover the pot and simmer for approximately 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly reduced.
  8. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is creamy and the cheese has melted.
  9. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
  10. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

To elevate this dish, transfer it to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and broil for 2 minutes for a crunchy crust. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; add a splash of beef broth when reheating to restore the sauce's silky consistency. For a nutritional boost, stir in frozen peas or fresh spinach during the last minute of simmering.