Indulge in pure comfort with this Easy Creamy Beef and Shells, a dish that turns simple ingredients into an irresistibly rich and satisfying dinner. Tender pasta shells cradle a luscious sauce made with savory ground beef, garlic, and tomato, all balanced by a touch of cream for velvety perfection.
This recipe is inspired by classic Italian-American home cooking — the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. ❤️ Whether you’re feeding your family or treating yourself after a long day, this one-pan wonder is ready in under 40 minutes, with minimal prep and maximum comfort.
It’s cozy, creamy, and oh-so-cheesy — perfect for weeknights when you want something quick but unforgettable.
Ingredients 🍽️
- 8 oz (225 g) medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 (14 oz / 400 g) can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- ⅓ cup beef broth
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon dried basil (optional for an herby aroma)
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a subtle kick)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella (optional but highly recommended!)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions 👩🍳
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta — The Comfort Base
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta shells according to package directions until al dente — tender but slightly firm to the bite.
Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later (you might need it to thin the sauce).
💡 Tip: Don’t rinse the pasta! The starch helps the sauce cling perfectly to every shell.
2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics — Build the Flavor Foundation
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant — you’ll know it’s ready when the aroma fills your kitchen.
3️⃣ Brown the Beef — Heart of the Dish
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart into small crumbles as it cooks.
Sauté until browned and no longer pink — about 5–7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain most of it, leaving just enough to keep the beef moist and flavorful.
Season the meat with chili powder, salt, pepper, and (if you’d like) a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
4️⃣ Build the Creamy Tomato Sauce — Silky and Rich
Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pan (those bits add amazing depth!).
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 8–10 minutes. The flavors will deepen and the sauce will thicken slightly.
Next, stir in the heavy cream and dried basil. The sauce will transform into a velvety, rosy hue — creamy, aromatic, and absolutely delicious.
💡 Optional: For extra richness, stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5️⃣ Combine Everything — The Perfect Harmony
Add the cooked pasta shells directly into the skillet. Toss gently to coat every piece with the creamy beef sauce.
If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb all that flavorful sauce.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy — Comfort on a Plate
Spoon generous portions into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Serve hot, maybe with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top (because who can resist that gooey, melty finish?).
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete, cozy meal that’ll make everyone ask for seconds.
Chef’s Tips 👨🍳
- Make it cheesier: Add extra mozzarella or Parmesan for an ultra-creamy sauce.
- Add veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition.
- Spice it up: A touch of cayenne or more chili powder gives it a kick.
- Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days — just add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to revive the sauce.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze the sauce separately (without pasta) for up to 2 months.
⏱ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 25 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes
🍽 Servings: 4
💫 Calories: 540 kcal per serving