Creamy Beef and Shells

This creamy beef and shells pasta is a true comfort food that fills the kitchen with the best savory aroma. With tender pasta shells blanketed in a velvety cheese sauce, packed with beef and spinach, this dish is perfect for busy nights when everyone needs a little extra warmth at the table.

I made this in a pinch one evening when time was short and we all needed something hearty. It instantly became a go to, especially when my nephew started asking for the shells and cheesy beef every time he visits.

Ingredients

• Ground beef or ground turkey: Brings rich meaty depth to the dish Look for good marbling and choose leaner beef for a lighter version
• Shell pasta: The perfect shape to scoop up the creamy sauce Opt for bronze cut pasta if possible for better sauce cling
• Onion: Adds sweetness and a flavor base Yellow onions are my favorite for their balance
• Broth: You can use beef chicken or vegetable depending on what you prefer Choose low sodium broth to control salt levels
• Tomato paste: Lends tanginess and color Go for double concentrated paste if you love a deeper tomato flavor
• Plain Greek yogurt: Creates that signature creamy texture at the end Full fat works best for silkiness
• Fresh spinach: Wilts into the sauce for color and nutrition Use baby spinach or tender mature leaves with stems trimmed
• Grated cheddar cheese: Melts to add sharpness and cheesiness Grate it yourself for extra smooth melt
• Worcestershire sauce: Gives a hint of umami Pick one without added sugar for the purest taste
• Italian seasoning: Brings all the herbal notes Use a blend with oregano thyme basil and rosemary for best flavor
• Garlic powder: Infuses subtle background warmth Fresh garlic can be swapped in if you love extra punch
• Smoked paprika: Provides mellow smokiness Spanish smoked paprika adds the richest essence
• Salt and black pepper: These season the whole dish Taste and adjust as you go

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Heat your largest cast iron skillet over medium heat Add the ground beef and cook for about five minutes breaking it into small pieces as it browns You want no pink left for the best texture

Sauté the Aromatics:

Once the beef is browned drain off any extra fat Add Worcestershire sauce finely diced onion half your Italian seasoning smoked paprika garlic powder salt and pepper Stir well and let everything cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant This builds a deeply flavorful base

Simmer with the Pasta:

Spoon in the tomato paste followed by shell pasta your chosen broth and the remaining Italian seasoning Stir everything together making sure most pasta is nestled under the liquid If the mixture looks too dry add a splash more broth or water

Cook the Pasta:

Lower the heat to its lowest setting Cover with a tight lid and let the mixture gently simmer for ten to fifteen minutes Stir every few minutes so nothing sticks or dries out Add more liquid as needed so the pasta stays plump

Add Cheese and Spinach:

When the shells are just al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed remove the lid Sprinkle in the cheddar cheese and heaping handfuls of spinach Stir gently until the cheese melts smoothly and the spinach softens

Finish Creamy and Serve:

Take the skillet off the heat Let it settle for five to ten minutes before stirring in the Greek yogurt This last touch makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and helps everything come together Taste and serve right away

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Every time I toss in fresh spinach I am reminded of my grandmother who always made sure to sneak extra veggies into our favorite comfort foods It is now my secret trick to getting kids excited about greens in pasta

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days When reheating add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess The flavors actually deepen overnight so leftovers make a satisfying lunch

Ingredient Substitutions

This dish is easy to adapt Ground turkey or chicken works just as well as beef For the dairy try cottage cheese or light cream cheese instead of Greek yogurt If you are out of Cheddar try Monterey Jack or mozzarella

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a full meal A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or chives right before serving brings brightness I also love a touch of chili flakes if you like a gentle kick

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A Bit of Comfort Food History

Creamy beef and shells embodies American comfort food traditions taking its cues from classic hamburger helper boxed suppers but with richer homemade flavors The combination of pasta cheese and beef is a nostalgic staple for so many busy home kitchens

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives while maintaining a similar texture and absorbing the seasonings well.

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Shell pasta is preferred for its ability to hold the creamy sauce and bits of beef, but other small pasta shapes can be used as substitutes.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from sticking while cooking?

Stir the mixture every 4-5 minutes and ensure the pasta is mostly submerged in broth to keep it moist and prevent sticking.

→ What gives the dish its creamy texture?

The creaminess comes from stirring in plain Greek yogurt at the end, which adds richness without overpowering the flavors.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and can be made in advance for quick family meals without losing its creamy consistency.