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- 1 pound ground beef - 8 ounces large pasta shells - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juices) - 1 cup beef broth - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 cup sour cream - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) To create Easy & Creamy Beef and Shells, these ingredients work together to build a rich and satisfying meal. The ground beef gives protein and flavor, while the pasta shells soak up the creamy sauce. I love using diced tomatoes for a pop of color and a touch of sweetness. The beef broth adds depth, while the Italian seasoning and paprika infuse warmth. Sour cream and cheddar cheese make this dish creamy and cheesy. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper to enhance flavors. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds brightness and a lovely touch. You can find the full recipe with step-by-step instructions to guide you in the kitchen. - Begin by cooking the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. - Drain and set aside. This step is key for the right texture. - In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. - Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. - Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. - If needed, drain the excess fat for a lighter dish. - Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. - Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. - Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and paprika. - Bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors. - Lower the heat and mix in the sour cream and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. - Finally, add the cooked pasta shells into the skillet. Gently toss them in the creamy beef sauce. - Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through. - Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed. Now, you have a delicious dish ready to serve! Check the Full Recipe for more details. To boost the taste of your creamy beef and shells, try adding crushed red pepper flakes. This will give your dish a nice, spicy kick. If you want a richer flavor, sprinkle in extra Italian seasoning. It really brings out the taste of the beef and cheese. When cooking the ground beef, always drain the excess fat. This keeps your dish lighter and healthier. Also, be careful not to overcook the pasta. You want it to be tender but firm, so it holds up well in the creamy sauce. For a pretty touch, serve the creamy beef and shells in bowls. Garnish each serving with fresh parsley. You can also add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for a restaurant-style look. This simple step makes your meal more inviting and fun! {{image_2}} You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This change makes the dish leaner and lighter. Ground turkey offers a similar taste but with fewer calories. Chicken also works well, giving you a mild flavor that blends perfectly with the creamy sauce. If you want a meatless option, try using diced mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas. Mushrooms add a hearty texture. Lentils bring protein, while chickpeas offer a unique flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly. This version is still rich and satisfying. Cheese can change the whole dish! You can use mozzarella for a gooey texture, or try a mix of different cheeses. Blending cheddar with parmesan creates a nice, complex flavor. Each cheese brings its own taste, making your dish unique and delicious. For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions above! Store your creamy beef and shells leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down first. This way, you can enjoy the meal later without losing flavor. To freeze this dish, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers. You can store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge for easy reheating. When reheating, use the stovetop for the best results. Heat it over low heat, and add a splash of beef broth or milk. This helps to bring back the creamy texture. Stir often to ensure it heats evenly. Enjoy your meal as if it were fresh! Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Simply cook the beef and sauce, then store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove. You can add a splash of beef broth to keep it creamy. This dish goes well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A fresh salad adds crunch, while garlic bread brings a nice flavor. Steamed veggies make a healthy side and balance the meal. Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like. However, larger shapes like shells work best. They hold the creamy sauce nicely, giving you a tasty bite every time. Feel free to experiment with different pastas to suit your taste. For the full recipe, check out the original guide. This dish combines ground beef, creamy sauce, and pasta shells into a comforting meal. You can adjust flavors by adding herbs or trying different meats. This recipe is easy to customize for your taste, making it perfect for everyone. Whether you freeze leftovers or serve them fresh, you'll enjoy it more each time. Have fun as you explore new variations! Remember, the key is to make it your own. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Easy & Creamy Beef and Shells

Satisfy your cravings with this delicious creamy beef and cheesy shells recipe! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a comforting dish featuring ground beef, pasta shells, and a rich, cheesy sauce that’s perfect for any meal. Whether it's a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Click through to explore the full recipe and enjoy a bowl of creamy goodness tonight!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground beef

8 ounces large pasta shells

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juices)

1 cup beef broth

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon paprika

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Begin by cooking the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

      Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

        Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

          Lower the heat and mix in the sour cream and cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

            Add the cooked pasta shells into the skillet, gently tossing them in the creamy beef sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

              Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.

                Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 4

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the creamy beef and shells in bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some extra cheese on top for additional richness.