If you’re craving a comforting, cozy dinner that comes together in one skillet and satisfies everyone at the table, Creamy Beef and Shells is a must-try. This hearty dish combines savory ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a rich, cheesy sauce with just enough spice to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel just a little bit special.

The beauty of Creamy Beef and Shells lies in its balance of flavor and simplicity. It doesn’t rely on fancy ingredients, but the result is something deeply satisfying and nostalgic. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a fuss-free dinner, this recipe delivers creamy comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe

This is a one-pan wonder that brings ease and comfort to your dinner routine. The creamy sauce hugs every bite of shell pasta and beef, and with just a few pantry staples, you can have a meal that tastes like it came from your favorite diner. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—swap in ground turkey, add spinach, or spice it up with chili flakes. It’s the ultimate dinner hero.

What Kind of Pasta Shells Should I Use?

Go for medium pasta shells. Their cupped shape is perfect for catching the creamy sauce and ground beef. If you don’t have shells on hand, elbow macaroni or rotini are solid stand-ins that still hold sauce nicely. Just be sure to cook them al dente, so they don’t get mushy when added back to the sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Beef and Shells

You won’t need a long shopping list to whip up this satisfying dish. The ingredients are basic, but each one plays an important role in building the creamy, savory flavor.

Ground beef: Adds hearty, savory depth. Go for lean beef to avoid excess grease.
Medium pasta shells: Their shape is ideal for catching sauce and beef in every bite.
Onion: Brings a mellow sweetness and foundational flavor.
Garlic: Adds aromatic depth that enhances every other ingredient.
Italian seasoning: Balances the dish with herby notes.
Tomato paste: Gives a rich umami boost and ties the beef to the creamy sauce.
Beef broth: Keeps the dish moist and intensifies the savory base.
Heavy cream: The key to a luxuriously creamy texture.
Cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding sharp, comforting richness.
Salt & pepper: Essential for rounding out the flavor.

How To Make the Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook the medium pasta shells according to package directions in salted water. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Remove any excess grease if needed.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Flavor

Stir in the tomato paste and Italian seasoning. Let it cook for another minute to enhance its flavor, then pour in the beef broth.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat and add the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Bring It Together

Add the cooked pasta shells back into the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the creamy beef sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Serving and Storing Creamy Beef and Shells

This recipe is incredibly filling and makes enough to serve four to six people. Serve it hot from the skillet with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top if desired. If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.

What to Serve With Creamy Beef and Shells?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of that luscious sauce.

Green Salad

A crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette brings freshness that balances the richness of the dish.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a bit of charred flavor and earthy goodness to the plate.

Steamed Green Beans

Simple and light, green beans offer a nice contrast to the creamy main.

Sautéed Mushrooms

The umami from mushrooms enhances the beefy notes in the dish.

Caesar Salad

Bold, tangy Caesar dressing is a great partner to the creamy pasta.

Fresh Tomato Slices

If you want to keep it easy and bright, just slice up some juicy tomatoes with sea salt.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If creamy one-pan meals are your comfort zone, you’ll want to explore these pasta favorites too:

Try the Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta when you’re craving something vibrant but still cozy.
The One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni is a deliciously bold and smoky twist.
Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese makes the ultimate cheesy indulgence.
Our Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta brings just the right heat to creamy seafood pasta.
Or, for veggie-packed goodness, give the Zucchini Lasagna Recipe a try.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it again any time.

Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you. Did you add extra veggies or swap the meat? Maybe you tossed in some red pepper flakes? I’d love to hear how you made this dish your own.

Explore beautifully curated pasta dinner ideas and hearty meal inspiration on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to comfort foods!

Conclusion

Creamy Beef and Shells is more than just a quick dinner. It’s comfort in a bowl, a family favorite, and a reliable recipe you’ll come back to again and again. With rich flavor, simple prep, and soul-warming results, it’s no surprise this dish is a weeknight hero.