Description
This Easy Creamy Beef and Shells recipe combines tender ground beef with al dente pasta shells in a rich, creamy tomato sauce infused with garlic and chili powder. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it comes together quickly using simple ingredients and requires only stovetop cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces medium uncooked shells
Beef Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 (14 ounce) can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1/3 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook the shells according to package directions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Sauté Onion: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and slightly browned.
- Brown Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with onions. Cook for 5 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if there is a lot.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in minced garlic and chili powder, cooking briefly until fragrant. Pour in tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir well and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces but does not dry out.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through gently.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked and drained pasta shells with the creamy beef sauce in the skillet. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef if preferred.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
- Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese makes a great garnish.
