Creamy Beef and Shells
Description
A hearty pasta dish featuring tender medium shells in a rich, creamy tomato beef sauce. Perfect comfort food for family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Beef
1 pound medium pasta shells
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Creamy Sauce
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
2 cups shredded cheese (mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Garnish
Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra grated Parmesan
Red pepper flakes
Instructions
Pasta Preparation
Cook shells in salted water until al dente
Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining
Drain and set aside
Beef Mixture
In large skillet over medium-high heat:
Brown ground beef
Add diced onion and garlic
Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
Cook until onions are soft
Drain excess fat if needed
Creamy Sauce
In same skillet:
Melt butter
Add flour and whisk for 1 minute
Gradually add milk, whisking constantly
Add tomato sauce
Simmer until thickened
Stir in:
Shredded cheese
Heavy cream
Parmesan
Stir until cheese melts
Combining
Add cooked pasta to sauce
Stir gently to combine
Add pasta water if needed for desired consistency
Simmer 2-3 minutes until heated through
Tips for Success
Don’t overcook pasta; it will continue cooking in sauce
Grate cheese fresh for best melting
Keep sauce moving to prevent sticking
Add pasta water gradually to achieve desired consistency
Variations
Use ground turkey for lighter version
Add spinach or mushrooms
Spice it up with red pepper flakes
Try different cheese combinations
Storage
Refrigerate up to 3 days
Reheat gently with splash of milk
Not recommended for freezing
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread
Add side salad
Sprinkle with extra cheese
Garnish with fresh herbs
Notes
Serves 6-8
Can be made ahead and reheated
Great for leftovers