Easy Creamy Beef And Shells Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Easy Creamy Beef And Shells: A Comforting Weeknight Delight! 🍝🥩🧀

1. Introduction

Are you searching for a simple yet satisfying meal to brighten up your weeknights? Look no further! This easy creamy beef and shells recipe is the perfect solution for busy evenings when you crave a hearty, home-cooked dish without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines ground beef, shell pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce to create a family-friendly dinner that everyone will love. Whether you call it creamy beef pasta or a quick beef shell dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. If you’re looking for other easy dinner ideas, you might also enjoy this easy hamburger and potato casserole recipe!

This easy creamy beef and shells recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or spices to make it your own. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients and create a new family favorite. Some people also like to add a little bit of kick to this dish. If you’re one of those people, consider making this quick taco casserole recipe to add to your dinner roatation! So, grab your skillet and let’s get cooking! This beef shell dinner is about to become your go-to meal for busy weeknights. For a similar, but different dish, check out this creamy beef and shells recipe.

2. Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (12-ounce) package small shell pasta
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

3. Equipment

Make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

• Large skillet
• Large pot
• Colander
• Mixing spoon

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying easy creamy beef and shells meal!

1. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until the beef is cooked through and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation for our flavorful creamy beef pasta. For a different take on ground beef, consider this mac and cheese meatloaf casserole!

2. Cook the Pasta

While the beef is browning, cook the shell pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta well and set aside. Properly cooked pasta is crucial for the perfect beef shell dinner.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and milk to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This creamy sauce is what makes this easy creamy beef and shells so irresistible.

4. Combine and Serve

Add the cooked shell pasta and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted. Continue to heat through. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade quick beef and shells! If you enjoy creamy dishes, you might like this quick chicken and stuffing bake recipe as welll!

5. Tips for the Perfect Dish

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for good-quality ground beef and cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
• Customize Your Sauce: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Or, consider using a different type of cheese!
• Mix-Ins: Consider adding vegetables such as peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrients and texture. This easy creamy beef and shells is highly adaptable!

6. Variations

• Spicy Beef and Shells: Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for a zesty kick.
• Cheesy Beef and Shells: Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack cheese for an extra cheesy flavor. You can even add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese after serving!
• Healthier Version: Use lean ground beef or ground turkey and whole wheat pasta.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

7. Serving Suggestions

This easy creamy beef and shells is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the dinner. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Make your beef shell dinner even more satisfying with these simple additions. For a complete casserole experience, compare it to this cheesy hamburger potato casserole!

8. Storage Instructions

Store any leftover creamy beef pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of milk if the sauce becomes too thick during reheating. If you love leftovers, this fiesta chicken casserole is another great option to make ahead of time!

9. Conclusion

This easy creamy beef and shells recipe is a winning combination of simplicity and comfort. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s quick to prepare, satisfying to eat, and easy to customize. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious beef shell dinner on the table in no time. If you’re looking for even quicker recipes to add to your dinner rotation, consider this melt in your mouth chicken bake recipe. Enjoy the smiles and satisfaction as your family devours this hearty and flavorful dish. Give this creamy beef pasta a try and make it a regular part of your meal rotation! If you want to try to test your culinary skills, here is Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna recipe that you can try!

If you’re looking for similar recipes, explore more dinner options here. Or, for a fun twist, try cheesy tater tot casserole.

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