CREAMY BEEF AND SHELLS EASY

Imagine perfectly cooked pasta shells, embraced by a luscious, creamy sauce bursting with savory ground beef – that’s Creamy Beef And Shells, comfort food elevated! Get ready to make a dish so satisfying, you’ll want to make it every week. Let’s dive in and create a family favorite!

The Dream Team: What You’ll Need

Beefy Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Creamy Goodness

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Pasta Power

• 1 pound medium shell pasta

Optional Extras

• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Part 1: The Beef Bonanza

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Part 2: Creamy Sauce Magic

1. In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This is key for a smooth, creamy sauce! Don’t let it burn.
3. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Trust me, whisking is your best friend here.
4. Add the beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Gently fold in the sour cream. This adds a lovely tang and richness.

Part 3: Pasta Perfection

1. While the sauce is simmering, cook the shell pasta according to package directions. Drain well.

Part 4: The Grand Finale

1. Add the cooked pasta and the browned ground beef mixture to the creamy cheese sauce. Stir to combine everything thoroughly.
2. If using, stir in the thawed frozen peas.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Troubleshooting Tips: Because We All Make Mistakes!

• Lumpy Sauce? Don’t panic! Use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the sauce to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Return to the saucepan.
• Sauce Too Thick? Add a splash of milk or beef broth to thin it out.
• Sauce Too Thin? Simmer for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. You can also whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and whisk that into the sauce. Simmer until thickened.
• Beef Bland? Season the ground beef with a little extra salt, pepper, or garlic powder while it’s browning. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add depth of flavor.

Level Up Your Creamy Beef And Shells Game

Want to take your Creamy Beef And Shells to the next level? Here are some ideas to personalize this recipe:

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.
• Veggie Power: Stir in other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onion.
• Cheesy Heaven: Use a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere, for a more complex flavor.
• Baked Version: Transfer the finished Creamy Beef And Shells to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
• Add Mushrooms: Saute sliced mushrooms with the onion for an earthy flavor.
• Use Different Pasta: Feel free to substitute other pasta shapes, such as elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini.
• Make it with ground turkey or chicken: If you are looking to make it a bit healthier, try swapping the beef for ground turkey or chicken.

If you’re in the mood for more comforting beef recipes, you absolutely must try this Beef Stew. It’s perfect for a cozy night in! Or, for another cheesy and satisfying meal, check out this Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. We can’t forget to mention Beef Stew again, because, seriously, it’s THAT good! And for a fun twist on Mac and Cheese, this Ranch Beef & Cheddar Macaroni Melt is a total game-changer. You might also want to try this Creamy Beef Pasta!

Make-Ahead Magic and Storage Secrets

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the beef mixture and the sauce separately ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta, and combine everything together.
• Storage: Store leftover Creamy Beef And Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be sure to stir it frequently to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezing: While you *can* freeze Creamy Beef And Shells, the texture of the sauce and pasta may change upon thawing. If you choose to freeze it, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 550-650
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fat: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g

*Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

Why This Recipe is a Winner

Creamy Beef And Shells is a classic comfort food for a reason. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is incredibly satisfying. The creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, and the savory ground beef adds a hearty protein punch. It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making it a perfect family meal. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, and spices to create a dish that’s uniquely yours.

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Comfort Food

You’ve now unlocked the secret to creating the most amazing Creamy Beef And Shells! This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the warm, comforting feeling of a home-cooked dish that brings people together. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a dish that will become a family favorite for years to come. Enjoy!