Looking for a quick, delicious, and comforting dinner recipe that your whole family will love? Look no further than this Easy Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe! Packed with flavorful beef, tender pasta shells, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying. Keep reading to learn how to make this crowd-pleasing dish, discover some variations, and find out how to serve it for the best results!

What is “Easy Creamy Beef and Shells”?
Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting pasta dish made with ground beef, shell pasta, and a creamy tomato-based sauce. It's a one-pan meal that comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic days when you need dinner on the table fast. The richness of the cream combined with the meatiness of the beef and the tender texture of the pasta creates an irresistible dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s versatile and can be easily customized to suit different tastes or dietary needs.
Ingredients List for Creamy Beef and Shells
To make this Easy Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe, you'll need the following ingredients. Most of these items are pantry staples, so you likely already have many of them on hand!
- Ground beef (1 lb): Use lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) for a flavorful but not overly greasy dish.
- Medium pasta shells (8 oz): These hold the creamy sauce perfectly in their little pockets.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced): Enhances the savory taste of the beef.
- Tomato sauce (1 cup): Forms the base of the sauce and gives the dish a tangy flavor.
- Heavy cream (¾ cup): Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
- Beef broth (1 cup): Adds moisture and helps meld the flavors together.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into the sauce to add extra creaminess and flavor.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs like oregano and basil to boost the flavor.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the onions and garlic.
Optional Ingredients and Add-ins
- Red pepper flakes (for heat): If you like a little spice in your pasta.
- Parmesan cheese (for topping): Adds a sharp, salty finish.
- Spinach or kale (1 cup): A sneaky way to add some greens to the meal.
- Mushrooms (sliced, 1 cup): Adds an earthy flavor that pairs well with beef.
- Sour cream (2 tablespoons): To make the sauce tangier.
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit various preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are some common substitutions and variations:
- Ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter version, you can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta: You can use whole wheat shells for added fiber or gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions.
- Low-fat cream or milk: If you want to cut down on calories, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. The sauce will be a bit thinner, but still delicious.
- Vegetarian option: Omit the beef and substitute with plant-based ground meat or extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
- Cheese variations: Feel free to switch up the cheese by using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's walk through the process of making this tasty Easy Creamy Beef and Shells. Follow these steps, and you'll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time!
- Cook the pasta shells: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, breaking the meat up with a wooden spoon, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add seasonings: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Let it cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Create the sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Add cream and cheese: Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Once the cream is incorporated, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
- Serve: Once everything is heated through, your creamy beef and shells are ready to serve!
How to Cook Creamy Beef and Shells: A Step-by-Step Guide
This guide provides a quick overview of the cooking process to ensure success:
- Boil the pasta until al dente.
- Sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Brown the beef, then season with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in tomato sauce and broth, and simmer.
- Add heavy cream and cheese to create the creamy sauce.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and serve hot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Creamy Beef and Shells turns out perfect every time, here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook your pasta shells until just al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Not draining excess fat: If you're using higher-fat ground beef, make sure to drain the excess grease to avoid a greasy dish.
- Curdling the cream: When adding the cream to the sauce, reduce the heat to low to prevent the cream from curdling.
- Undersalting the pasta water: Always salt your pasta water! It’s the best way to ensure your pasta is flavorful from the start.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can take this humble dish from simple to sensational. Here are some ways to serve your Creamy Beef and Shells for maximum appeal:
- Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor to the dish.
- Add extra cheese: Serve the dish with an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy finish.
- Serve with crusty bread: A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad makes this meal feel complete.
- Use a deep bowl: Serving this creamy pasta in a deep bowl allows you to enjoy every last bit of the rich sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells
This dish is best served hot, fresh out of the skillet. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the creamy sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Beef and Shells
Want to make your dish Instagram-worthy? Try these presentation ideas:
- Serve in wide, shallow bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil on top.
- Grate some extra cheese over the dish just before serving, and let it melt for an ooey-gooey finish.
- Add a pop of color with a handful of cherry tomatoes or a side of sautéed greens.
Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe Tips
To ensure success, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Prep ahead: You can chop your onions and garlic ahead of time to make the cooking process even quicker.
- Double the recipe: This dish freezes well! Double the recipe, and store half for a quick dinner on a busy night.
- Use fresh cheese: Grate your own cheese for the best melting results. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze Creamy Beef and Shells?
A: Yes! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can make this recipe a day in advance. Store in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little broth or cream to loosen up the sauce if needed.
Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use a dairy-free cream and cheese alternative to make this dish suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Conclusion
This Easy Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe is a quick, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or looking for a dish to impress your friends, this creamy, cheesy pasta dish delivers every time. Don’t be afraid to customize it with your favorite veggies or adjust the creaminess to suit your taste! Give it a try tonight and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
PrintEasy Creamy Beef And Shells Recipe
Easy creamy beef and shells recipe combines tender pasta shells with savory ground beef in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. A family favorite, this comforting dish is quick to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce clings to the shells, making every bite flavorful and satisfying. Best of all, it uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Pasta shells
- Ground beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Tomato sauce
- Heavy cream
- Cheddar cheese
- Chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned, and season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in tomato sauce and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine, then add cooked pasta.
- Mix in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
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