Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines tender beef with creamy sauce and pasta shells. It’s perfect for a hearty family dinner or a cozy meal on a cold evening. Here’s a delicious recipe to make this creamy and flavorful dish:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups uncooked pasta shells
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

• Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

1. Brown the Beef:

• In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

1. Sauté Aromatics:

• Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.

1. Add Mushrooms (if using):

• If using mushrooms, add them to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until they are softened.

1. Make the Sauce:

• Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
• Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce starts to thicken.
• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

1. Add Tomatoes and Cheese:

• Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.

1. Combine with Pasta:

• Gently fold in the cooked pasta shells until they are well coated with the creamy beef mixture.

1. Serve:

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, Parmesan, or a cheese blend for varied flavors.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Creamy Beef and Shells is a rich, satisfying meal that combines the comforting elements of pasta, beef, and a creamy sauce. Enjoy this hearty dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal!