There’s nothing quite like a big, comforting bowl of creamy beef and shells to turn a long day around. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors that make every bite irresistible. Whether you need a quick and hearty weeknight dinner or something cozy to warm you up, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

What makes this recipe so special? First, it’s a one-pot meal, which means minimal cleanup (always a bonus). Second, it’s incredibly easy to make, with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. And finally, the combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, and melty cheddar cheese creates a flavor that’s pure comfort food bliss.

So, let’s get started on this easy and delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

Before we dive into the cooking process, here’s everything you’ll need for this dish:

• 1 pound ground beef – The base of this dish, giving it a rich and hearty flavor.
• 8 ounces medium pasta shells – Their curved shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds depth and a subtle sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – A must-have for adding a delicious aroma and flavor.
• 2 cups beef broth – Helps cook the pasta while enhancing the overall taste.
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce – Provides the perfect balance of acidity and richness.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes – Adds texture and a fresh tomato flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that adds warmth and depth.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Brings a hint of smoky sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds just the right amount of spice.
• 1 cup heavy cream – The key to making the sauce rich and creamy.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully into the sauce for an irresistible cheesy finish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sauté the onions and garlic, building the flavor base.

STEP 1: SAUTÉ THE ONIONS AND GARLIC

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes soft and translucent. The onion creates a flavorful base for the dish, adding just the right touch of sweetness.

Next, toss in the minced garlic and stir it around for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—garlic can turn bitter quickly if overcooked. This step is small but essential because it builds a deep, savory flavor that will infuse the entire dish.

STEP 2: BROWN THE GROUND BEEF

Once the onion and garlic are cooked, it’s time to add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks, stirring frequently. You want to brown the beef evenly, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

As the beef cooks, you’ll start to notice flavorful juices releasing. If there’s excess grease, go ahead and drain it out to prevent the dish from becoming too oily. Removing the extra fat keeps the sauce rich and creamy without being heavy.

At this stage, you already have a deliciously fragrant base for the dish—savory beef mixed with onions and garlic. But now, it’s time to take things to the next level by adding in all the flavors that make this dish so irresistible.

BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER – BUILDING FLAVOR & CREATING CREAMY PERFECTION

At this point, you have a rich and savory base of sautéed onions, garlic, and browned ground beef. Now, it’s time to take this dish to the next level by building the sauce, cooking the pasta, and finishing everything off with a creamy, cheesy touch. This is where all the ingredients come together to create that signature comfort food flavor.

STEP 3: ADD THE TOMATO SAUCE AND SEASONINGS

With the beef fully cooked and any excess grease drained, it’s time to add the ingredients that will form the flavorful sauce.

Pour in:

• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth

Stir everything together, making sure the beef is well-coated in the liquid. The combination of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes gives the dish a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness while the beef broth deepens the meaty flavor.

Now, it’s time to add the seasonings that will enhance the sauce even more. Sprinkle in:

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Give everything a good stir, making sure the spices are evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich, well-rounded taste.

STEP 4: COOK THE PASTA

Now that the sauce is simmering, it’s time to add the pasta shells directly into the pot. The best part about this method? The pasta cooks right in the sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors as it softens.

Stir in:

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells

Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the sauce, then cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

The pasta will soak up some of the liquid, making the sauce thicker and more flavorful. If you notice the sauce reducing too much before the pasta is fully cooked, you can add a splash of extra beef broth or water to keep things saucy.

STEP 5: MAKE IT CREAMY AND CHEESY

Now for the best part—turning this dish into the creamy, cheesy comfort food that makes it so irresistible.

Once the pasta is tender, reduce the heat to low and stir in:

• 1 cup heavy cream

The heavy cream transforms the sauce into a rich and velvety masterpiece, making every bite extra indulgent. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to ensure the flavors fully combine.

Now, it’s time for the final touch:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Slowly sprinkle in the cheese while stirring continuously. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a smooth, creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully. Once the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is thick and luscious, remove the pot from the heat.

STEP 6: LET IT REST & SERVE

Before digging in, let the dish sit for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and ensures the pasta is evenly coated.

Now, your creamy beef and shells are ready to be served! Scoop generous portions into bowls and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this one-pot classic.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS & FINAL THOUGHTS

By now, you have a rich and creamy bowl of beef and shells ready to enjoy. But if you’re wondering about substitutions, storage tips, or ways to switch things up, you’re in the right place. Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about this dish, along with a few final thoughts to help you get the most out of this comforting meal.

1. CAN I USE A DIFFERENT TYPE OF PASTA?

Yes! While medium pasta shells are great for holding onto the creamy sauce, you can easily swap them out for elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different pasta shapes may cook faster or slower.

2. CAN I MAKE THIS AHEAD OF TIME?

Absolutely. This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen up the sauce if needed.

3. CAN I FREEZE CREAMY BEEF AND SHELLS?

Yes, but with a slight disclaimer—creamy sauces can sometimes separate when frozen. If you do freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and stir well while warming to bring the sauce back together.

4. HOW CAN I MAKE THIS LIGHTER?

If you want a lighter version of this dish, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

5. WHAT CAN I SERVE WITH THIS DISH?

This meal is satisfying on its own, but if you want to round out your dinner, consider serving it with:

• A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Roasted or steamed vegetables
• Garlic bread or a crusty baguette

6. HOW CAN I ADD MORE FLAVOR?

If you want to enhance the flavor even more, try:

• Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
• Stirring in a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor
• Using a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for extra cheesiness

7. CAN I MAKE THIS IN A SLOW COOKER?

This recipe is best made on the stovetop, but if you want to use a slow cooker, you can brown the beef first, then add all the ingredients except the pasta, cream, and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the pasta, then finish with the cream and cheese once the pasta is tender.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Creamy beef and shells is the ultimate one-pot comfort food—hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s a dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights, yet it’s satisfying enough to serve as a cozy weekend meal.

Whether you stick to the recipe as written or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, make a big batch, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Did you add any special twists? I’d love to hear your variations. Happy cooking!

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