This Creamy Beef & Shell Pasta Skillet is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting one-pan dish that brings together tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a luscious creamy sauce. It is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, yet rich and satisfying enough to serve as a family favorite. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—you only need common pantry ingredients to create a filling, balanced meal. With its velvety texture, bold flavors, and kid-friendly appeal, this dish is destined to become a go-to dinner option.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups medium pasta shells (uncooked)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth, then add pasta shells. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan. Mix until creamy and smooth. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Servings
4 servings
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 520
Protein: 29g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fat: 26g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 620mg
Notes
This skillet recipe can be easily adjusted based on preference. Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. For a cheesier variation, increase the amount of cheddar or try mozzarella for a gooey finish.
Tips
Cook pasta shells directly in the skillet with broth to absorb flavor and reduce dishes. Always grate cheese fresh from a block for the creamiest texture. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it. For meal prep, store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat with a bit of extra cream or broth to maintain creaminess.
Health Benefits
This dish provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a filling meal. Ground beef delivers essential nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which support red blood cell production and energy. The inclusion of tomatoes adds antioxidants like lycopene, while parsley offers vitamin K and freshness. Pairing it with a side salad or steamed vegetables increases fiber intake and boosts overall nutrition.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the dish and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with added broth or cream to maintain creaminess.
Q: Can I freeze Creamy Beef & Shell Pasta Skillet?
A: Freezing is possible, but the texture of the cream may change slightly. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
Q: What type of pasta works best?
A: Medium shells are ideal because they hold the creamy sauce well, but penne or rotini can also be used.
Q: Can I make this without heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute with half-and-half or evaporated milk, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.
Q: How can I make it healthier?
A: Use lean ground beef, whole wheat pasta, and reduce cheese slightly. Adding extra vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini boosts fiber and vitamins.