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+ servings
Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells: Your New Family Favorite Meal

A delightful recipe for Creamy Beef and Shells that brings comfort and joy to family dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta Shells Substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired.
For the Meat
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can replace with ground turkey or chicken.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 cup Chopped Onions Use shallots for a milder taste.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Garlic powder works as a substitute.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Swap with vegetable broth for vegetarian version.
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Replace with oregano and basil if needed.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute with half-and-half or vegan cream.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Broth and Seasoning: Once the beef is browned, pour in the beef broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir, scrape any bits off the skillet, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
  4. Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, allowing to simmer for another 5 minutes until thickened and creamy.
  5. Combine: Gently fold the cooked pasta shells into the creamy beef mixture, ensuring each shell is coated. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
  6. Serve: Spoon into bowls and garnish with extra Italian seasoning or parsley. Serve hot alongside garlic bread or a salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Feel free to customize the protein or add veggies to suit your family's taste!

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