Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting, hearty pasta dish that’s rich, savory, and easy to whip up on busy weeknights. Made with ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this one-pot-style dinner delivers classic flavors the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect mix of simple and satisfying. It uses pantry-friendly ingredients, cooks quickly, and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and ideal for meal prepping. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want comfort food fast, Creamy Beef and Shells is a go-to dinner you’ll want to keep on repeat.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Medium pasta shells
Ground beef
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Tomato paste
Beef broth
Heavy cream
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Parmesan cheese, grated
Italian seasoning
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Olive oil

directions

Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Mix in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for another 3–4 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir well to coat.
Mix in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Let everything simmer together for a couple more minutes, then serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4–6 people.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add veggies: Stir in cooked spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Use different pasta: Swap shells for rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni if preferred.
Make it leaner: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
Extra cheesy: Add a dollop of cream cheese or use a cheese blend for even more richness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat:

Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.

This dish also freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Beef and Shells ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.

What type of ground beef should I use?

Use 80/20 or 85/15 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and minimal grease.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but you can also use mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a blend.

Can I add more protein?

Sure! Stir in cooked Italian sausage or mix in beans for added protein.

How do I keep the sauce from drying out?

When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not as written, but you can make it spicy by adding chili flakes or hot sauce.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check all ingredient labels for gluten.

Does this freeze well?

Yes, let it cool completely and freeze in portions for easy future meals.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbows will work well.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is the kind of meal that satisfies cravings for something hearty, cheesy, and delicious without needing hours in the kitchen. With its rich meat sauce and creamy cheese finish, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners, leftovers, or feeding a hungry family on a budget. Give it a try, and it’s bound to become a staple in your dinner rotation.