Creamy Beef and Shells

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How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Creamy Beef and Shells that will have your family asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 2 cups large pasta shells
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for cooking

Directions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the pasta shells according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef: While the pasta cooks, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if needed.
4. Create the Sauce: To the beef, add the beef broth and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer, allowing the broth to reduce slightly for about 3-5 minutes.
5. Make It Creamy: Once the broth has reduced, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens up. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta shells into the skillet, stirring to coat the shells in the creamy beef sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined.
7. Serve: Serve the creamy beef and shells immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired.

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Tips for Customizing Your Creamy Beef and Shells

While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are plenty of ways to make it your own:

• Add Veggies: Try adding spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the dish for an extra serving of vegetables. These can be sautéed with the onions and garlic or added directly to the beef mixture.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken. You’ll still get a creamy and satisfying dish but with a bit less fat.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce to give it a little kick.
• Use Different Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or provolone for a unique twist.

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Final Thoughts

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting, filling dish that brings together savory beef, creamy sauce, and tender pasta in a way that’s sure to satisfy. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and can be customized to suit a variety of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish that will impress guests, this recipe is a winner every time. So, gather your ingredients, grab a spoon, and enjoy a bowl of creamy goodness tonight!