Creamy Beef and Shells: A Family Favorite!
Ingredients
- 8 ozmedium pasta shells: The shells hold the sauce beautifully and provide a satisfying bite.
- 1 tbspolive oil: Used to sauté the beef and onion (adding healthy fats and flavor.)
- 1 lbground beef: The heart of the dish (providing richness and protein.)
- 1small sweet onion (diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.)
- 5 clovesgarlic (minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor and enhances the overall taste.)
- 1 tspItalian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the beef and pasta.
- 1 tspdried parsley: Adds freshness and enhances visual appeal.
- 1/2 tspdried oregano: Adds earthiness and robustness to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 tspsmoked paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness and warmth that elevates the dish.
- 2 tbspall-purpose flour: Used as a thickener for the creamy sauce.
- 1 cupbeef stock: Adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 115 oz can marinara sauce: The base for the sauce, adding richness and acidity.
- 3/4 cupheavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- 1/4 cupsour cream: Adds tanginess and depth to the dish.
- —Kosher salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
- 1 1/2 cupsfreshly grated cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce (making it gooey and delicious.)
Instructions
- 1
Cook the pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook 8 oz medium pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- 2
Brown the beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb ground beef and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- 3
Sauté the onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add 1 small diced sweet onion and sauté until translucent, about 2 minutes. Add in 5 minced cloves of garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Incorporate flour: Whisk in 2 tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute until lightly browned.
- 5
Add liquids and seasonings: Gradually add 1 cup beef stock, 1 (15 oz) can of marinara sauce, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp dried parsley, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to simmer until the sauce thickens, about 6-8 minutes.
- 6
Combine pasta and beef: Add the cooked pasta and browned beef back into the skillet, stirring to combine.
- 7
Make it creamy: Stir in 3/4 cup heavy cream until heated through, then mix in 1/4 cup sour cream.
- 8
Cheesy finish: Fold in 1 1/2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese until melted, approximately 1-2 minutes. The sauce should be creamy and smooth.
- 9
Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.