Pasta shells smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce with hearty ground beef and aromatic seasonings make for the ultimate comfort food. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Let’s dive into this delicious dish that combines the richness of cheddar cheese and the savory flavor of ground beef for a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta shells
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 sweet onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 6 ounces grated extra-sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 1/2 cups)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta shells according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, making sure to crumble the beef as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Cook Onion: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Add Flour: Stir in the flour and cook until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
- Add Liquids: Gradually stir in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is slightly thickened, about 6-8 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked pasta, browned beef, and heavy cream. Cook until heated through, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy, about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve: Serve the creamy beef and cheddar shells immediately. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Add-Ins: For extra nutrition, add some vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Cheese Variations: Try using a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead and reheated. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This creamy beef and cheddar shells recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Its rich, cheesy sauce and tender pasta make it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Share this recipe with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!
Happy cooking!