Creamy Beef and Shells
Introduction
Welcome to this delicious and satisfying recipe for creamy beef and shells. This hearty dish combines tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese to create a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Read on to learn how to make this delectable dish step by step.
Ingredients
To make creamy beef and shells, you will need the following ingredients:
For the beef:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the sauce:
– 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the pasta:
– 1 box (12 ounces) medium shell pasta
– Salt for boiling water
Steps
Follow these simple steps to make creamy beef and shells:
Step 1: Cook the beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion is softened.
Step 2: Prepare the sauce
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the pasta
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shell pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta and set aside.
Step 4: Combine the pasta and sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce. Gently toss the pasta until it is well-coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together.
Variations
There are numerous ways to customize this creamy beef and shells recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Cheesy Option
If you love cheese, consider adding a generous amount of shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top of the pasta before baking it in the oven. This will give the dish a deliciously cheesy crust.
2. Veggie Delight
If you want to add more vegetables to your meal, consider sautéing some bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini and adding them to the beef sauce. This will add extra flavor and nutrition to the dish.
3. Spicy Twist
If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef sauce. This will give the dish a spicy kick that complements the creamy flavors.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results with your creamy beef and shells:
1. Use high-quality beef
Opt for lean ground beef with a higher fat content to ensure a flavorful and moist result.
2. Season generously
Don’t be shy with the seasonings. The dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper add depth and complexity to the dish.
3. Let it simmer
Allowing the sauce to simmer for an extended period enhances the flavors and helps to thicken the sauce.
4. Serve with a side salad
To balance out the richness of the dish, serve it with a crisp, green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
Conclusion
Creamy beef and shells is a delightful recipe that brings together the richness of beef, the tanginess of tomato sauce, and the creaminess of cheese. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home. So why not give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a plate of creamy beef and shells?
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While shells work well in this recipe, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stovetop and combine it with the cooked pasta.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven.