Description

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Creamy Beef and Shells recipe, a perfect comfort food dish that comes together in one skillet. Savory ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce make this a family-favorite weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed tomato soup (undiluted)
1 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
8 ounces medium pasta shells (like conchiglie), uncooked
½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and undiluted condensed tomato soup. Stir to combine with the beef and onions.
4. Add the beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Stir in the uncooked pasta shells. Make sure they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
6. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
7. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and heated through.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.

Notes

Allow the cooked dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed. Alternatively, microwave on 50% power, stirring halfway through.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g