Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a hearty and delicious Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet. This dish is the perfect combination of cheesy goodness, savory beef, and tender pasta shells that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. In this article, we will walk you through the ingredients you need, the steps to create this mouthwatering dish, various variations you can try, some handy tips, and finally, answer some frequently asked questions.
Ingredients
To make the Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 1 pound ground beef
2. 1 medium onion, diced
3. 2 cloves garlic, minced
4. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
5. 2 cups beef broth
6. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
7. 8 oz medium pasta shells
8. 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
9. Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all these ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Steps
Follow these steps to create your Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and pasta shells. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked through.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Enjoy your Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet hot and fresh from the skillet!
Variations
There are several ways you can customize your Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet:
1. Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
2. Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.
3. Mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of freshness.
4. Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to suit your taste preferences.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet:
1. Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content of the dish.
2. Stir the pasta occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
3. Let the skillet sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the cheese to melt and meld with the other flavors.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a visually appealing presentation.
Follow these tips for a delicious Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet every time!
Conclusion
The Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful combination of beef, cheese, and pasta, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you follow the classic version or add your own twist, the end result will be a delicious meal that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delightful culinary experience with this Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A: While the recipe calls for medium pasta shells, you can certainly experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini.
Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just be sure to add a little extra broth or cheese to keep it from drying out.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, you can freeze any leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet
A comforting and satisfying dish featuring a flavorful combination of beef, cheese, and pasta. Perfect for any occasion, this Cheesy Beef & Shells Skillet will become a household favorite.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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2 cups beef broth
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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8 oz medium pasta shells
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
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Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and pasta shells. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked through.
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Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
