There is something so irresistibly comforting about a well-made pasta dish, especially when it’s rich, cheesy, and packed with hearty goodness. The Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe is exactly that kind of meal—a delightful blend of tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and a luscious creamy sauce, all kissed with a perfect balance of herbs and spices. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to deliver warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white skillet on a white marbled surface holds three main layers, all side by side without mixing yet. On the left is a pile of cooked pasta shells, smooth and yellowish. In the middle is a mound of cooked ground meat, brown and crumbly in texture. On the right is a pool of red tomato sauce, thick and rich, with a swirl of cream or white sauce on top adding a creamy texture. A wooden spoon rests on the skillet, partly over the meat and sauce. Around the skillet are some glass jars with spices and two white garlic bulbs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe comes together with absolutely simple, yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the tender pasta shells adding texture to the sharp cheddar cheese providing that signature creamy richness.

8 ounces medium pasta shells: These little pockets are perfect for soaking up all the creamy goodness in the sauce.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to brown the beef beautifully and adds a subtle fruity note.
1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this dish filling and flavorful.
½ medium onion (diced): Adds natural sweetness and depth to the sauce.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings warmth and aromatic appeal to every mouthful.
1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a subtle smoky undertone that enhances the beef.
½ teaspoon mustard powder: Adds a gentle tang and complexity to the creamy sauce.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Works as the thickening agent to create that perfect creamy consistency.
2 cups beef stock: Provides rich, savory depth, intensifying the beefy flavor.
15-ounce can tomato sauce: Imparts a tangy brightness that balances the richness.
¾ cup heavy cream: The star of creaminess, bringing luscious texture that unites all ingredients.
6 ounces extra sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, about 1½ cups): Melts into a gooey, flavorful finish that you just can’t resist.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring out the best in every component.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the medium pasta shells according to package instructions until just tender. Drain them well to avoid any extra water diluting your sauce later on.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s thoroughly browned and no longer pink—about 3 to 5 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside to keep that skillet ready for the next flavorful layers.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Throw the diced onion into the same skillet and cook over medium heat until translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, add minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, paprika, and mustard powder, stirring constantly for about a minute to bloom the spices and aromas.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce Base

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring it in to create a lightly browned roux. This step is key to achieving that rich creaminess. Gradually whisk in beef stock and tomato sauce, bringing the mix to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer gently for 6 to 8 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Beef, and Cream

Return the cooked beef and pasta shells to the skillet, stirring everything together evenly. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring until the sauce warms through and becomes luxuriously silky.

Step 6: Melt in the Cheese and Season

Sprinkle shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese over the entire pan and stir until melted and incorporated into the sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, then serve immediately for that comforting, cheesy indulgence.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

The image shows a top view of a black pan on a white marbled surface, filled with three main layers of food. On the left side, yellowish cooked shell pasta is gathered. On the right, there is a thick layer of browned ground meat over a dark red sauce, with a dollop of white creamy sauce partially mixed in near the bottom right. A large wooden spoon is resting horizontally across the pan, with a woman's hand holding the handle from the top left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of green onions add a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens this rich dish beautifully. A light dusting of extra cheddar or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can give it a fun finishing touch too.

Side Dishes

Pair this Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes a great accompaniment for soaking up every last bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, try serving the pasta in individual oven-safe bowls topped with an extra handful of cheddar and broiled briefly until golden and bubbly. Alternatively, layer it into a casserole dish, sprinkle more cheese on top, and bake until bubbly and inviting for a lovely baked version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Beef and Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making your next meal just as satisfying.

Freezing

This dish freezes well—just portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the creamy texture and tender pasta.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of beef stock or cream to restore that silky sauce consistency. Microwaving works too; just stir occasionally to heat evenly without drying out your creamy beef and shells.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While medium pasta shells are perfect for holding the sauce, other shapes like elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini will work wonderfully and give the dish a slightly different texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream, and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Keep in mind this will slightly alter the flavor but still deliver a creamy, delicious result.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. You can make the beef sauce portion up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently and add the cooked pasta and cheese at the end for that fresh-from-the-pan feel.

What can I do if I want to add vegetables to this dish?

Great idea! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers go beautifully with the flavors here. Just sauté them with the onions or add them in during the sauce simmering stage to soften.

How spicy is this dish?

This Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe has a mild, comforting warmth thanks to the paprika and Italian seasoning, with no strong heat. You can always add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne if you prefer a little kick!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug and comes together without fuss, this Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe is a winner every time. It’s cheesy, hearty, and just the right balance of comforting flavors that will quickly become a household favorite. So grab your skillet, invite your favorite people to the table, and enjoy this delicious dish with plenty of smiles all around.