There’s something about a bowl of pasta that feels like an embrace after a long day, and this Easy Creamy Beef and Shells delivers that warm, comforting hug every time. Tender pasta shells are coated in a rich, creamy sauce filled with seasoned ground beef, making it a dish that’s as hearty as it is satisfying.

The first time I made this, I was craving something nostalgic yet simple—a dinner that reminded me of the meals my mom used to make. This recipe brought back all those flavors but with a creamy twist that elevated it into something truly special.

What I love most about this dish is how versatile and family-friendly it is. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but indulgent enough to serve to guests. Let’s whip up this Easy Creamy Beef and Shells and enjoy a little pasta magic

The Easy Creamy Beef and Shells is a quick, hearty pasta dish that combines tender shell pasta with a creamy, flavorful ground beef sauce. This one-pot wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal without much fuss.

It’s comfort food at its best—simple, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy.

An Exciting Story:

The first time I served this Easy Creamy Beef and Shells, my family couldn’t stop going back for seconds. My kids loved the cheesy, creamy sauce that clung to every shell, and my husband appreciated how filling and flavorful it was. Now, it’s one of our favorite quick dinners, and it always delivers smiles around the table.

Why This Easy Creamy Beef and Shells?

• Hearty and Creamy: The ultimate comfort food with a rich, indulgent sauce.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Kid-Friendly: A guaranteed hit with the little ones.
• Customizable: Add veggies or spices to suit your taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.

What You Need for Easy Creamy Beef and Shells

• For the Pasta:
  • 12 oz medium shell pasta
  • Salt for boiling water
• For the Beef Sauce:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
• For the Creamy Sauce:
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Easy Creamy Beef and Shells

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
2. Cook the Beef:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add Aromatics:
   • Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce:
   • Stir in the tomato paste and marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
5. Add the Cream and Cheese:
   • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Combine with Pasta:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.
7. Serve:
   • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.

Tips for Easy Creamy Beef and Shells

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it al dente so it holds its shape when mixed with the sauce.
2. Freshly Grate the Cheese: It melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.

Substitutions and Variations:

• Make It Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrients.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: A lighter alternative to ground beef.

Make a Healthier Version:

• Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based alternative.
• Use lean ground beef or ground turkey for less fat.

Closing for Easy Creamy Beef and Shells:

And there you have it—Easy Creamy Beef and Shells that’s comforting, flavorful, and ready in no time. Perfect for family dinners or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying, this dish is guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite. Let us know how yours turns out, and don’t forget to explore more of our quick and hearty recipes!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Creamy Beef and Shells

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the pasta and sauce separate until ready to serve to prevent the pasta from soaking up the sauce.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What’s the best way to reheat?
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or macaroni work well too.

What pairs well with this dish?
Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed vegetables.

Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce?
Yes, for an even quicker version, substitute the creamy sauce with a jarred Alfredo.

How can I make it cheesier?
Stir in more cheddar or Parmesan, or sprinkle extra on top before serving.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives.

Why is my sauce too thick?
Use the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

What’s a fun serving idea?
Serve in individual pasta bowls with a sprinkle of parsley and extra Parmesan for a restaurant-style presentation.

How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese to avoid curdling.

Easy Creamy Beef and Shells

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Pasta:

• 12 oz medium shell pasta

• Salt for boiling water

• For the Beef Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 ½ cups marinara sauce

• For the Creamy Sauce:

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

• Cook the Pasta:
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.
• Cook the Beef:
• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
• Add Aromatics:
• Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Make the Sauce:
• Stir in the tomato paste and marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
• Add the Cream and Cheese:
• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
• Combine with Pasta:
• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it to your desired consistency.
• Serve:
• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.