Creamy Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells

by

Creamy Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells

Description

This Creamy Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells recipe is pure comfort food. Tender pasta shells are coated in a rich, savory cream sauce with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and herbs in every bite. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast—warm, hearty, and totally irresistible, just like the one your sister-in-law made.

 Ingredients

  • 12 oz medium pasta shells

  • 1 lb beef steak or ground beef (bite-sized pieces or crumbled)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • Salt to taste

  • Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh parsley

 Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta
    Boil pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Cook the beef
    Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add beef and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove excess grease if needed.

  3. Add garlic & seasoning
    Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

  4. Make the sauce
    Pour in beef broth and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream.

  5. Add cheese
    Mix in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth.

  6. Combine
    Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet and gently toss until fully coated.

  7. Finish & serve
    Garnish with parsley and extra cheese if desired. Serve hot.

 Recipe Notes

  • Steak bites give a richer texture, while ground beef makes it extra cozy and easy.

  • Sauce thickens as it sits—add a splash of broth or cream if reheating.

  • Best served immediately for maximum creaminess.

 Tips for Best Results

  • Salt your pasta water well for better flavor.

  • Don’t overcook the pasta—it will soak up sauce.

  • Freshly grated cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded.

  • Add mushrooms or onions for extra depth.

 Servings

  • Serves: 4–6

 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: ~560

  • Protein: 32g

  • Carbohydrates: 45g

  • Fat: 30g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: ~780mg

(Estimates vary by ingredients used.)

Benefits

  • High in protein to keep you full

  • Comforting and satisfying, great for family dinners

  • One-pan sauce for easy cleanup

  • Customizable with different cheeses or proteins

 Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, but it’s best fresh. Reheat gently with added cream or broth.

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: You can, but the sauce will be thinner—whole milk works best.

Q: What pasta works best?
A: Shells, rigatoni, penne, or cavatappi all hold the sauce well.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Cream sauces don’t freeze perfectly, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month if needed.

Q: How do I make it spicy?
A: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Leave a Comment