Introduction
Welcome to a dish that’s pure comfort in a bowl: Creamy Beef and Shells! This delightful recipe combines savory ground beef with tender shell pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Every bite bursts with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that your family will love. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also only requires a single skillet, making clean-up a breeze. Let’s dive into this comforting classic!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 ounces) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked shell pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s cooked through, draining any excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Incorporate the uncooked shell pasta, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to heat through before mixing in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a luscious, creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
Notes or Tips
This recipe is flexible, so feel free to customize it! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost. If you’re looking for a bit more spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great choice for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
One of the key techniques in this recipe is browning the ground beef. This not only adds flavor through the Maillard reaction but also creates a nice texture. Make sure to drain excess fat after browning for a more balanced dish. When simmering the pasta, keep it covered to retain moisture, which helps in evenly cooking the pasta while allowing it to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While shell pasta is perfect for this recipe, any short pasta, like penne or rotini, will work just as well.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
Absolutely! You can use lean ground beef or substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Conclusion
And there you have it, a hearty and delicious Creamy Beef and Shells recipe that will quickly become a family favorite! It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors that remind you of home. Whether you’re serving a busy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, this dish is sure to satisfy. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share the love!