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Creamy Beef and Shells: A Family Favorite!
Alyssa

Creamy Beef and Shells: A Family Favorite!

Savor Creamy Beef and Shells—rich, cheesy, and comforting. A family-favorite pasta dish that's quick and easy to make for dinner.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz medium pasta shells: The shells hold the sauce beautifully and provide a satisfying bite.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the beef and onion adding healthy fats and flavor.
  • 1 lb ground beef: The heart of the dish providing richness and protein.
  • 1 small sweet onion diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
  • 5 cloves garlic minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor and enhances the overall taste.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the beef and pasta.
  • 1 tsp dried parsley: Adds freshness and enhances visual appeal.
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Adds earthiness and robustness to the flavor profile.
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness and warmth that elevates the dish.
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Used as a thickener for the creamy sauce.
  • 1 cup beef stock: Adds moisture and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  • 1 15 oz can marinara sauce: The base for the sauce, adding richness and acidity.
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
  • 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and depth to the dish.
  • Kosher salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
  • 1 1/2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce making it gooey and delicious.

Method
 

  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.