Craving something that delivers comfort with every bite? Creamy Beef and Shells is that one-skillet, weeknight dream that combines rich, meaty goodness with tender pasta and a velvety sauce that clings to every shell. It’s quick enough for a busy evening, hearty enough to satisfy hungry appetites, and cozy enough to become a household favorite.

This dish brings together shell pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that makes it irresistible. Each shell captures the sauce, making every forkful indulgent and perfectly balanced. Whether you’re cooking for family or want reliable leftovers for the week, Creamy Beef and Shells delivers both flavor and function.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Creamy Beef and Shells successfully, having the right tools can make your cooking process smooth and efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is essential since the entire recipe comes together in one pan. A high-sided skillet helps to manage splatters and gives enough room to stir everything together.
Medium Pot: For boiling the pasta separately while the beef cooks. Using a dedicated pot ensures the pasta is perfectly cooked without interfering with the sauce.
Colander: To drain the shell pasta. Make sure you save a little pasta water if needed to adjust the sauce.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for breaking up the ground beef and stirring the sauce without scratching your cookware.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: These help ensure your cheese, cream, and seasonings are well-balanced.

Investing in quality cookware and utensils doesn’t just make this dish easier—it elevates every step of your cooking game.

Ingredients for the Creamy Beef and Shells

Each ingredient in this comforting dish plays a specific role in building flavor, texture, and richness. Here’s a breakdown:

Medium Pasta Shells: These ridged, scoop-like pasta pieces are perfect for holding the sauce and beef in every bite.
Ground Beef: The star protein of this dish, adding savory depth and heartiness.
Yellow Onion: Finely chopped, it creates a sweet and aromatic base for the beef.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the sauce with sharp, savory notes.
Tomato Paste: Adds concentrated umami and balances the cream with its slight tanginess.
Beef Broth: Brings a savory liquid base, enhancing the meatiness.
Heavy Cream: Essential for the creamy texture that coats the shells luxuriously.
Cream Cheese: Melts into the sauce for extra body and a mild tang.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharpness and pulls everything together with a cheesy finish.
Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning: Elevate the entire dish with balanced seasoning.

How To Make the Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Boil the Shells

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the medium pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a touch of oil and cook the diced onion until translucent. Add the garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until fully browned, then drain any excess fat.

Step 4: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Then pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Add in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta shells into the skillet. Stir gently to coat the pasta in the creamy beef sauce.

Step 7: Finish with Cheese

Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt through the mixture. Stir until everything is rich and creamy.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Beef and Shells

Creamy Beef and Shells is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Its rich texture makes it ideal for hearty dinners, whether plated for a cozy table setting or scooped into bowls for casual meals. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the experience.

For leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pasta shape works best if I don’t have shells?

While shells are perfect for catching the creamy sauce, other short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or cavatappi work well too.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk?

You can use whole milk or half-and-half in a pinch, but the sauce will be slightly thinner. A touch of extra cream cheese helps add back some richness.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a spoonful of your favorite chili paste to the beef mixture when sautéing.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner option and still pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

What cheeses can I use besides cheddar?

Mozzarella adds gooeyness, while Parmesan lends a nutty edge. You can also blend cheeses for a custom flavor.

Is this kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The creamy texture and mild seasonings make it a favorite among picky eaters.

Want More Creamy Pasta Ideas?

If you’re loving this Creamy Beef and Shells, you’re going to want to try more creamy, comforting pasta dinners.

The Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta is another rich and meaty dish, but with a playful pasta shape twist. Or explore a little heat and spice with the Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta, a bold, creamy meal that wakes up the taste buds.

For cheese lovers, the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is layered, oven-baked, and deeply satisfying. You might also enjoy the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta if you’re leaning toward something smoky with a kick. And for an ultra-convenient dinner, don’t miss the Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese—just set it and forget it.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, come back and let me know what you thought. Did you switch up the cheese? Add herbs? I’d love to hear your spin in the comments.

And if you’re hungry for more daily recipe inspiration, check out my Pinterest board at LadyPlate on Pinterest.

Creamy Beef and Shells

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting, family-friendly pasta dinner that blends savory ground beef with shell pasta and a rich, cheesy cream sauce. It’s quick to prepare, deeply satisfying, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, then drain the excess fat.

4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the beef broth and simmer for 3-4 minutes.

5. Reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

6. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.

7. Add the cooked pasta shells into the skillet. Gently mix until well coated with the creamy beef sauce.

8. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted.

9. Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped parsley.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and flavor—pre-shredded cheese may cause graininess.

If reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk to loosen up the sauce and restore creaminess.

For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey and use half-and-half instead of cream.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 620
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 670mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: creamy beef and shells, pasta skillet, weeknight dinner