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Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells: Quick Comfort Food for Busy Nights

This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a quick, comforting dish that combines tender pasta shells and savory ground beef in a velvety sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Medium Pasta Shells Can substitute with rigatoni or penne if desired.
For the Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Feel free to swap with lean ground turkey or lentils for a lighter or vegan alternative.
  • 1 medium Onion Infuses sweetness and depth; shallots or leeks work well.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is always best.
  • 2 cups Creamy Tomato Sauce Choose store-bought or homemade, or replace with cashew or coconut cream for a vegan spin.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning You can substitute it with dried oregano and basil.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Beef and Shells
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add medium pasta shells and cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta carefully and set it aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped medium onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
  3. Introduce the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
  4. Once the beef is browned, stir in the creamy tomato sauce and cooked pasta shells. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, mixing everything together for about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and let your creamy beef and shells simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
  6. Once heated through, scoop the dish onto plates and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

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