Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce into one irresistible dish. This one-pot wonder has become a staple in my household for those evenings when we crave something hearty yet quick to prepare.
Inspired by classic mac and cheese but elevated with seasoned ground beef, this dish strikes the perfect balance between creamy indulgence and satisfying protein. The little pasta shells act as perfect vessels, catching pockets of the luscious sauce in every bite, making each forkful absolutely delightful.
Why You’ll Love This
- One-pot meal means minimal cleanup after dinner
- Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
- Kid-friendly but sophisticated enough for adults
- Versatile recipe that works with pantry staples
- Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
- 6 oz shell pasta
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cups broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt, room temperature
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until no longer pink. Drain excess fat
- Add Worcestershire sauce, onions, half the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Cook until onions soften
- Stir in tomato paste, shells, broth, and remaining Italian seasoning. Make sure pasta is covered with liquid
- Cover and cook on low for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender
- Mix in cheddar and spinach until cheese melts and spinach wilts
- Let cool 5-10 minutes, then stir in room temperature Greek yogurt
Tips & Variations
- For a healthier version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra vegetables
- Stir in a handful of baby spinach at the end for a pop of color and nutrition
- Make it spicier by adding more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce
- For a richer flavor, use half beef broth and half chicken broth
- If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes
Serving Suggestions
This creamy beef and shells is hearty enough to be served on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For an extra touch of comfort, serve with garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
For a complete family dinner, consider adding a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots to bring some color and freshness to the plate.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess
- The pasta will continue to absorb sauce as it sits, so serve promptly for best texture
- For meal prep, you can brown the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook with the pasta
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While medium shells catch the sauce beautifully, you can substitute elbow macaroni, cavatappi, or small penne with similar results.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it up to a day ahead and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive the sauce.
Is there a way to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the beef with plant-based ground meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
Why is my sauce grainy instead of smooth?
This typically happens when cheese is added to too hot a liquid or cooked at too high a temperature. Make sure to remove the pan from direct heat before adding cheese and stir constantly while incorporating it.
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