If you’re craving a dish that wraps comfort, flavor, and a touch of creamy indulgence all into one bowl, you’re in the right place. This Creamy Beef and Shells recipe brings together tender, savory ground beef and perfectly cooked pasta shells bathed in a luscious, dreamy sauce made from heavy cream and rich beef broth. With just the right hint of garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning, this meal manages to be hearty yet elegant—ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners when you want something both satisfying and special.

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is simple but crucial, each playing a part in creating that rich texture, balanced flavor, and comforting aroma that make Creamy Beef and Shells so unforgettable. From the tender pasta shells to the fragrant garlic and velvety cream, these basics come together beautifully.

1 lb lean ground beef: Provides a hearty, meaty base without too much grease.
8 oz medium pasta shells: These scoop up the sauce perfectly for every bite.
1 cup heavy cream: Adds that signature richness and smooth texture.
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Offers sweetness and depth to the savory mix.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a bold, aromatic punch.
2 cups low-sodium beef broth: Infuses extra savory flavor and keeps the sauce light on salt.
2 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties the dish together with herbs like oregano and basil.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient’s natural flavor.

How to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Shells

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the pasta shells until al dente ensures they maintain a perfect bite and ready to absorb all the delicious sauce. Once done, drain and set them aside so they don’t overcook while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef with Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the lean ground beef along with the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook everything together until the beef is fully browned and the onions turn soft and fragrant. This step builds the savory foundation of your Creamy Beef and Shells. Be sure to drain any excess fat so the dish stays rich but not greasy.

Step 3: Simmer with Beef Broth and Italian Seasoning

Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the meat mixture. Let this simmer gently for about five minutes; this allows the flavors to meld and the broth to reduce slightly, intensifying the taste that will eventually coat your shells beautifully.

Step 4: Stir in the Heavy Cream

Lower the heat and slowly add the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer on low for another five minutes, thickening nicely into the luscious, creamy texture that makes this dish so indulgent and comforting.

Step 5: Fold in the Cooked Pasta Shells

Gently fold your cooked pasta shells right into the creamy beef sauce, ensuring every shell is generously coated. This step is where the magic happens—the pasta soaks up that velvety sauce, making each forkful a cozy blend of flavors and textures. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if you need that perfect finish.

Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Once everything is combined and heated through, your Creamy Beef and Shells is ready to be served hot. This dish shines best fresh but holds up beautifully if you want to save some for later.

How to Serve Creamy Beef and Shells

Garnishes

To add a pop of freshness and a little extra flavor, sprinkle your Creamy Beef and Shells with additional Italian seasoning or some freshly chopped parsley. A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese can also elevate the creaminess and add a subtle savory finish you’ll love.

Side Dishes

This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans that balance the richness with their bright, clean flavors. For a more indulgent meal, garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make perfect companions to soak up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish family-style in a large, rustic bowl to encourage everyone to dig in and share. For a fun twist, try layering the Creamy Beef and Shells in individual gratin dishes topped with a little extra cheese and broiling until golden and bubbly—a surefire crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Beef and Shells can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the next meal just as delicious. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

If you want to keep this dish longer, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. When freezing, it’s best to undercook the pasta slightly so it doesn’t get mushy upon reheating. Thaw in the fridge overnight before warming up.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to bring back that silky sauce consistency. You can also warm it in the microwave—just cover the dish and stir every minute or so for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of shells?

Absolutely! While medium pasta shells are perfect for holding the creamy sauce, other shapes like elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini will also work well. Just keep cooking times similar to ensure they don’t overcook.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still deliciously creamy.

Can I add vegetables to Creamy Beef and Shells?

Definitely. Adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers can bring extra color, nutrition, and flavor to the dish. Toss them in during the beef browning step for best results.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning? What can I use instead?

No worries if Italian seasoning isn’t on hand. A simple mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme will create a similar flavor profile that complements the beef and cream sauce beautifully.

How can I make this recipe for a larger group?

Simply double or triple all the ingredients and use a larger skillet or pot to cook. This recipe scales well and keeps its rich, creamy texture no matter the quantity.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Creamy Beef and Shells enough for anyone looking to whip up a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner with minimal fuss. The combination of tender pasta, savory beef, and that dreamy cream sauce creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this truly satisfying meal—you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 11 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender ground beef cooked with aromatic onions and garlic, simmered in a rich, creamy sauce made with heavy cream and Italian seasoning, then tossed with perfectly cooked medium pasta shells. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Dairy

1 lb lean ground beef
1 cup heavy cream

Pasta

8 oz medium pasta shells

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Seasonings

2 cups low-sodium beef broth
2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the pasta shells: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta shells. Cook them until al dente, following package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef along with the finely chopped yellow onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onion is softened, approximately 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet for a leaner dish.
Simmer with broth and seasoning: Pour in the low-sodium beef broth and add the Italian seasoning. Stir well, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it cook uncovered for about 5 minutes. This helps meld the flavors and slightly reduces the broth.
Add the heavy cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Continue to simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Combine pasta and sauce: Gently fold the cooked pasta shells into the creamy beef sauce, ensuring that all the shells are well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust salt and pepper seasoning as needed.
Serve: Serve the creamy beef and shells hot, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of extra Italian seasoning or fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to increase nutritional content and flavor.
Use low-sodium beef broth to control the salt level and suit dietary needs.
Reserve some pasta water when draining the shells – it can help adjust sauce consistency without watering down flavor.
This dish can be topped with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil for extra taste.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and simmering
Cuisine: Italian-American