This creamy beef and shells pasta dinner is a cozy, one-pot meal that everyone will love! With tender pasta, hearty beef, and a smooth, cheesy sauce, it’s comfort food at its best.
I always enjoy how quick it is to make. It comes together in one pot, so I spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying leftovers (if there are any)! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often use lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken works well, too. For a vegetarian option, swap in lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
Pasta Shells: Medium pasta shells are perfect for holding the creamy sauce. If you don’t have them, any short pasta like penne or fusilli can be used easily.
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but mozzarella gives a nice stretchy texture. If you’re dairy-free, there are great vegan cheese options available!
Sour Cream: This adds creamy richness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. You can also skip it for a lighter dish.
How Do I Get My Pasta Just Right?
Cooking the pasta shells correctly is vital for this dish. You want them tender but not mushy. Here’s how:
- Add the pasta to the skillet with beef, broth, and milk. Make sure the liquid covers the pasta.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and simmer. Stir occasionally, as this helps keep the pasta from sticking.
- Check the pasta around the 12-minute mark to see if it’s al dente. If it’s still a bit firm, give it a couple more minutes.
- Remember, the pasta will continue cooking when you stir in the sour cream and cheese, so aim for just slightly less than perfect!
Creamy Beef and Shells Pasta Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 12 oz (340g) medium pasta shells
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying this delicious creamy beef and shells pasta dinner in about 35 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. This creates a lovely base for your beef!
2. Add Garlic and Beef:
Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another 30 seconds until you can smell it. Then, add the ground beef to the pan. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks, until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, don’t forget to drain it out!
3. Mix in the Tomatoes:
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes. These will add a lovely flavor and texture to your dish.
4. Incorporate the Pasta:
Now, it’s time for the pasta! Add the pasta shells, beef broth, and milk to the pan. Stir well to combine everything and ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Make it Creamy:
Once the pasta is cooked, take the pan off the heat. Stir in the sour cream and shredded cheese until everything is melted and creamy. Taste your dish – you might want to add a bit more salt or pepper at this point!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your creamy beef and shells pasta dinner with fresh parsley if you like. Serve hot and enjoy every bite of this delicious meal!
FAQ for Creamy Beef and Shells Pasta Dinner
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great healthier substitute for ground beef. Just be mindful that turkey tends to be leaner, so you may want to add a bit more oil or butter to keep the dish moist.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative that will give you a similar creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream substitute.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas can boost the nutrition. Just sauté them with the onions in step 1 to ensure they’re cooked and tender by the time the dish is ready.