Description
Creamy Beef and Shells is a hearty and comforting pasta dish featuring tender ground beef, savory spices, and a rich, creamy sauce coating perfectly cooked medium pasta shells. Topped with melted cheddar cheese for a family-friendly dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small sweet onion, finely diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 (15-ounce) can marinara sauce
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup sour cream
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, parsley, oregano, smoked paprika, and flour. Cook 1–2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
- Gradually add beef stock, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce.
- Mix in marinara sauce, heavy cream, and sour cream. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Top with cheddar cheese and let melt before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheddar for best melting and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste; add red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American