Creamy Beef Shells Dinner (Printable Version)
Savory beef and spinach melded with tender shells and creamy cheddar for a satisfying meal.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Meat
01 -
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
→ Pasta
02 -
8 oz shell pasta
→ Vegetables
03 -
4.2 oz onion, finely diced
04 -
10.5 oz fresh spinach, roughly chopped
→ Liquids & Sauces
05 -
2 cups broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable)
06 -
3.9 tbsp tomato paste
07 -
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
→ Dairy
08 -
12.7 oz plain Greek yogurt, room temperature
09 -
2.1 oz grated cheddar cheese
→ Spices & Seasonings
10 -
2 tsp Italian seasoning, divided
11 -
1/2 tsp garlic powder
12 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
13 -
Salt, to taste
14 -
Black pepper, to taste
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, breaking it apart until fully browned with no pink remaining.
02 -
Drain excess fat from the skillet. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, diced onion, half of the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook until onions are fragrant and softened.
03 -
Add tomato paste, shell pasta, broth, and remaining Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly making sure pasta is mostly submerged; add extra broth or water if necessary.
04 -
Reduce heat to low and cover skillet with a tight lid. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring every 4 to 5 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Add additional liquid if the mixture appears dry.
05 -
Remove the lid when pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed. Stir in grated cheddar and fresh spinach, cooking until cheese melts and spinach wilts.
06 -
Take the skillet off heat and let the mixture cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Incorporate the Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy. Serve immediately.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
For added richness, top with extra shredded cheese before serving. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. This dish reheats well for convenient meals.