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–+ servings

Creamy Beef and Shells

A comforting dish that combines tender pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce and hearty ground beef.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces medium pasta shells Choose a quality pasta for the best texture.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil This adds flavor and helps with sautéing.
  • 1 pound ground beef Opt for lean beef to reduce excess grease.
  • 1 small sweet onion Diced, adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
  • 5 cloves garlic Minced, fresh garlic elevates the overall flavor significantly.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A blend of herbs that complements the beef perfectly.
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley Adds freshness to the sauce.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano A classic herb in Italian cooking that enhances taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Gives a subtle smokiness to balance the creaminess.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
  • 1 cup beef stock Use low-sodium stock for better control over salt levels.
  • 1 15oz can marinara sauce A quick way to add rich tomato flavor.
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream Makes the dish luxuriously creamy and rich.
  • 1/4 cup sour cream Adds tanginess to balance flavors.
  • to taste kosher salt Essential for seasoning throughout cooking.
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper Essential for seasoning throughout cooking.
  • 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese Freshly grated, melts beautifully into the sauce.

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened.
  3. Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Stir in Italian seasoning, dried parsley, oregano, and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute.
  5. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring to combine. Gradually add beef stock, marinara sauce, heavy cream, and sour cream.
  6. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens. Stir in cooked pasta shells and cheddar cheese until melted.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15g

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