Creamy Shell Pasta with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe

Creamy Shell Pasta with Ground Meat and Cheese Recipe

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Creamy Shell Pasta with Ground Meat and Cheese is a rich, satisfying dish that brings together tender pasta shells, seasoned ground meat, and a velvety sauce infused with herbs, spices, and melted cheese. Each bite delivers a balance of textures—soft pasta, savory meat, and gooey cheese—wrapped in a creamy coating that clings to every curve of the shell.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings. The shell-shaped pasta (conchiglie) is ideal for holding sauce, making every mouthful flavorful and indulgent. The ground meat, whether beef, chicken, or sausage, is browned and seasoned with aromatic spices, while the sauce is built from cream, broth, and cheese, creating a luscious base that ties everything together.

Finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a bubbling layer of cheese, this pasta is baked or served straight from the pan. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to taste, and loved by both kids and adults. Whether served with garlic bread, salad, or on its own, it’s a complete meal that satisfies every craving.

INGREDIENTS:

For the pasta:

  • 300g shell pasta (conchiglie)
  • Water for boiling
  • 1 tablespoon salt

For the meat mixture:

  • 500g ground beef, chicken, or sausage
  • 1 tablespoon oil or butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste or ketchup (optional for depth)

For the creamy sauce:

  • 1 cup heavy cream or full-fat milk
  • 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon flour (for thickening)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)

For garnish and topping:

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese for topping
  • Red chili flakes or black pepper for finishing

INSTRUCTION:

Step 1: Cook the pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and pasta shells.
  2. Cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
  3. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the meat mixture

  1. Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add ground meat and break it apart with a spatula.
  5. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
  6. Stir in paprika, black pepper, chili flakes, oregano, and salt.
  7. Add tomato paste or ketchup and mix well.
  8. Cook for 2–3 more minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the creamy sauce

  1. In a separate saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter or oil.
  2. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a roux.
  3. Slowly pour in cream and broth, whisking to avoid lumps.
  4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
  5. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Stir in shredded cheese and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Combine pasta, meat, and sauce

  1. In a large mixing bowl or skillet, combine cooked pasta, meat mixture, and creamy sauce.
  2. Toss gently to coat every shell evenly.
  3. If baking, transfer to a greased baking dish.
  4. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  5. If serving directly, heat gently in the skillet until warmed through.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

  1. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for freshness.
  2. Add a pinch of chili flakes or cracked black pepper for extra flavor.
  3. Serve hot with garlic bread, salad, or steamed vegetables.

SERVINGS:

This recipe yields 4 to 6 generous servings, depending on portion size and side dishes. It’s ideal for family dinners or small gatherings, and leftovers reheat beautifully.

NOTE:

Pasta Tips

  • Shell pasta: Holds sauce well; alternatives include penne, fusilli, or elbow macaroni.
  • Cooking time: Avoid overcooking—al dente pasta maintains texture when mixed with sauce.
  • Rinsing: Stops cooking and prevents sticking. If baking, skip rinsing for better sauce absorption.

Meat Tips

  • Choice of meat: Beef offers richness; chicken is lighter; sausage adds spice and depth.
  • Seasoning: Adjust spices based on meat type—add fennel for sausage, cumin for beef.
  • Vegetarian option: Replace meat with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles.

Sauce Tips

  • Cream vs milk: Cream gives richness; milk is lighter. Adjust flour for thickness.
  • Broth: Adds flavor—use homemade or store-bought.
  • Cheese blend: Cheddar melts well; mozzarella adds stretch; Parmesan adds sharpness.
  • Nutmeg: Enhances cream sauces subtly—use sparingly.

Baking Tips

  • Optional step: Baking adds texture and melts topping cheese.
  • Dish choice: Use ceramic or glass for even heating.
  • Covering: Bake uncovered for crisp top; cover for softer finish.

Garnish Tips

  • Parsley: Adds color and freshness.
  • Chili flakes: Optional for heat lovers.
  • Lemon zest: A pinch brightens the dish.

Serving Suggestions

  • With bread: Garlic bread, naan, or dinner rolls.
  • With salad: Crisp greens with vinaigrette balance richness.
  • With soup: Tomato or vegetable soup pairs well.
  • As a main: Serve alone for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently.
  • Reheating: Use microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen sauce.

Customization Ideas

  • Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce.
  • Herb infusion: Mix in basil, thyme, or rosemary.
  • Veggie boost: Add spinach, peas, or roasted peppers.
  • Crunchy topping: Add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.

Practical Tips

  • Batch cooking: Double recipe for meal prep or parties.
  • Time-saving: Use pre-cooked meat or leftover roast.
  • Flavor layering: Season each component—pasta, meat, sauce—for depth.
  • Presentation: Serve in wide bowls or plates for visual appeal.

Mindful Cooking

  • Sensory cues: Watch for bubbling sauce, golden cheese, and aromatic steam.
  • Relaxation: Cooking pasta is comforting—enjoy the rhythm and warmth.
  • Sharing joy: This dish is perfect for communal meals—serve with love and laughter.
  • Creative expression: Customize ingredients and presentation to reflect your style.
  • Seasonal twist: Add pumpkin puree in fall or fresh herbs in spring.
  • Cultural connection:

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