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Creamy Beef and Shells dish served in a bowl with fresh herbs

Creamy Beef and Shells

A comforting one-skillet pasta dish featuring ground beef folded into a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce with jumbo shells.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Dairy
  • 8 ounces jumbo pasta shells Cook according to package directions.
  • 1/2 cup cream or milk Use cream for a richer sauce.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Adjust for taste preference.
Meat and Tomatoes
  • 1 pound ground beef Use 90/10 for less grease or 80/20 for flavor.
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces, undrained.
Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste salt and pepper Add to flavor preference.
  • optional fresh parsley For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook jumbo shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains.
  3. Drain excess fat from the pan, leaving a thin film to carry flavor.
Cooking
  1. Add the canned diced tomatoes with their juices to the beef. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cream or milk. Add the shredded cheddar a handful at a time, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  3. Add the cooked shells to the skillet. Toss gently so each shell is coated in the creamy tomato-beef sauce. Heat through for a minute or two.
  4. Transfer to plates or serve straight from the skillet. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top if you like and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 14gSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4g

Notes

For a lighter version, swap beef for ground turkey or use a plant-based crumble. To enhance flavor, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste with the tomatoes.

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