Creamy Beef and Shells Dish

Creamy Beef and Shells is my answer when I need a comforting dinner that comes together easily but feels extra special. Savory ground beef simmers in a rich, creamy tomato sauce, with tender pasta shells capturing every bit of buttery sauce. A touch of hot sauce and mustard powder wakes up all the flavors, but cream cheese is the secret that makes this dish truly unforgettable.

I first made this when we needed cozy food on a chilly night. My husband’s reaction was legendary and now I am always asked to make this when everyone is home together.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Builds a deeply savory foundation Go for fresh beef with some fat for best flavor
• Medium onion: Adds sweetness and aroma Pick a firm onion and dice it finely so it disappears into the sauce
• Fresh garlic: Heightens the flavor Nothing beats real garlic for warmth and depth
• Pasta shells: Perfectly catch the creamy sauce Use medium shells or try short shapes like rotini or farfalle
• Beef broth: Loosens and enriches the sauce Choose low sodium to control saltiness
• Tomato sauce and tomato paste: Brings in the tangy tomato base Use a quality brand for the richest taste The paste also helps thicken everything up
• Cream cheese: Makes the sauce lush and smooth Room temperature blocks blend best
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts to give creaminess Grate it yourself instead of using pre-shredded for a smoother melt
• Half and half: Gives silkiness to balance the tomato flavor Use fresh for the best finish
• Worcestershire sauce: Lends a savory depth that rounds out the sauce A splash goes a long way
• Hot sauce: Brightens and boosts flavor without making it spicy Try Texas Pete or Frank’s RedHot
• Mustard powder: Quietly sharpens the background flavor but can be left out in a pinch
• All purpose flour: Thickens the sauce gently Sift before adding to avoid lumps
• Fresh parsley: Freshens everything up at the end A sprinkle adds color and a pop of flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Ingredients:

Set out all ingredients and shred your cheese This keeps things running smoothly once you start cooking

Brown the Beef and Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large skillet over medium high heat cook the ground beef Stir often and break it up as you go When it is mostly browned add the diced onion Cook together until the onion turns soft and translucent This builds your flavor base

Add Garlic and Season:

Stir in the fresh minced garlic and cook for one minute Keep a close eye so the garlic does not burn Add hot sauce Worcestershire sauce mustard powder and flour Stir to coat everything well and cook for another minute to toast the spices and cook off any raw flour taste

Deglaze and Simmer the Sauce:

Pour in the beef broth and use your spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet Add tomato sauce tomato paste and the softened cream cheese Reduce heat to medium and let the sauce gently simmer while you boil your pasta The cheese should melt smoothly into the sauce

Boil the Pasta:

Meanwhile bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add pasta shells and cook until just al dente usually seven to eight minutes Drain well but do not rinse

Finish the Cream Sauce:

Lower heat under your skillet to low Stir in the half and half and let it warm through Remove from heat then add the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time Stir very well after each addition The sauce should be creamy and thick

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Fold the drained pasta shells into the sauce and mix gently until every shell is coated Let it sit on the stove for a minute or two so the flavors meld Garnish with finely chopped parsley right before serving

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Cream cheese is what gives this sauce its luxurious finish I still remember the night I added that extra dab and everyone asked what made the recipe so creamy and satisfying

Storage Tips

Let the dish cool completely Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days For longer storage freeze cooled portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating Warm gently on the stove adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen if needed

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter twist Any short pasta shape will work if you do not have shells You can substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese but the result will be tangier For a tomato free version try using roasted red pepper puree instead of tomato sauce

Serving Suggestions

A green salad or simple sautéed vegetables are my favorite sides Garlic bread with melty cheese pairs perfectly for soaking up the creamy sauce For a crowd serve straight from the pan and let everyone sprinkle their own parsley

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Recipe History

Creamy beef and shells is a modern take on classic American casseroles It is a little like hamburger helper but homemade and much fresher Many Italian American cooks have their own spin on this comforting pasta and every family seems to have a beloved version

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of pasta works best with creamy beef?

Pasta shells are ideal for holding the sauce, but rotini, farfalle, or fusilli are excellent alternatives that capture the creamy tomato mixture well.

→ How does hot sauce affect the flavor?

A small amount of hot sauce enhances the depth without adding noticeable heat, balancing the creaminess and tomato notes.

→ Can I substitute cheese types?

Sharp yellow cheddar works nicely for its melting quality and flavor, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different textures.

→ Is there a recommended way to prepare the ground beef?

Cook and crumble the ground beef over medium-high heat, adding onions midway. Drain excess grease to keep the dish from becoming oily.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store in an airtight container, refrigerating for up to 3 days or freezing for up to 3 months to maintain freshness and flavor.

→ What tips improve the sauce texture?

Incorporating tomato paste thickens the sauce, while simmering gently and stirring in cream cheese and shredded cheese ensures smoothness and richness.