Cheesy Beef Shells Pasta 🧀🍝
This rich and cheesy beef pasta is the ultimate comfort food — tender pasta shells coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce with seasoned beef. A family favorite that disappears fast!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or steak pieces
- 8 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta shells in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add onion and cook until softened (2–3 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Create Sauce: Pour in beef broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Combine: Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir in cooked pasta shells. Reduce heat to low and add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Finish: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper (optional) and chopped parsley for garnish.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy immediately while it’s extra cheesy and rich!
Tips & Variations
- Use ground sausage for a spicier twist.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and texture.
- Try cheddar or provolone instead of mozzarella for a different cheese profile.
- For a baked version, transfer to a casserole dish, top with more cheese, and broil until bubbly and golden.
Calories: ~580 per serving
