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creamy beef and shells pasta in two small gray bowls
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Creamy Beef And Shells Pasta

Creamy beef and shells pasta is an easy one pan comfort food dinner featuring pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, cheesy sauce. The whole family will love this easy weeknight dinner!
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Rest Time5 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Dinner, Entree, Main Course, Pasta
Cuisine: American
Servings: 6
Calories: 486kcal
Author: Meaghan - The Quicker Kitchen

Ingredients

  • 10-12 oz medium shell pasta cooked to 'al dente' and drained
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 small yellow onion peeled & diced
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Add the oil to a large skillet, or Dutch oven, set over medium high heat. Add the beef and onion. Cook and crumble until the meat's completely browned, then strain off the grease.
  • Add all of the seasonings, stirring to evenly combine, then cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  • Sprinkle the flour evenly out over the dish, stir to combine, and cook for 60 seconds.
  • Slowly pour in the broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Immediately reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionnaly, for 10 minutes- just until the sauce has thickened some.
  • Add the cream and cheese to the skillet, stirring them until evenly combined and melted.
  • Add the pasta, stirring again until evenly coated. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
  • Stir well, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Want to sneak in some veggies? Add a diced bell pepper, diced zucchini, or even sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the beef and onions.
  • You can substitute ground chicken or turkey if you prefer, though it will be a little lighter tasting.
  • Don't have shells? Use elbow macaroni for a Hamburger Helper kind of vibe or even bow ties.
  • Letting it sit will help the sauce thicken a little more so don't skip the 5 minute cooling time.

Nutrition

Calories: 486kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 88mg | Sodium: 827mg | Potassium: 709mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1161IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 195mg | Iron: 4mg