This rich and creamy pasta dish combines tender pasta shells, savory beef, and a velvety garlic Parmesan sauce for a comforting, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Sauté the Garlic
- In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Cook the Pasta
- Stir in the beef broth and pasta shells.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Make the Cream Sauce
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Combine the Ingredients
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!
30 Popular Questions and Their Answers
General Questions
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta work well. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it can be stored in the fridge and reheated later. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth or cream to refresh the sauce. - Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy sauce and mild flavors are a hit with kids.
Ingredient Questions
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative. - Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes, use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. - What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Romano or Asiago cheese are great substitutes. - Can I add vegetables?
Yes, peas, spinach, or broccoli are great additions. - Do I need to use olive oil?
No, you can use butter or another neutral oil.
Preparation Questions
- Should I cook the pasta separately?
No, cooking it in the broth adds flavor and saves time. - How can I make the sauce thicker?
Cook the sauce longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp water). - Do I need to season the beef?
Yes, season with salt and pepper while browning. - Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better, but pre-grated works in a pinch. - How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stir occasionally while cooking in the skillet.
Cooking Questions
- Can I use a different broth?
Yes, chicken or vegetable broth can be used. - How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Cook it on medium heat and stir frequently. - What if the sauce is too thin?
Simmer longer to reduce or add more Parmesan cheese. - Can I make this in one pot?
Yes, everything can be cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup. - Do I need to cover the skillet while cooking?
Yes, covering helps the pasta cook evenly.
Serving Questions
- What sides go well with this dish?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables are great options. - Can I top it with additional cheese?
Absolutely! Extra Parmesan or mozzarella is delicious. - Can I serve this as a main dish?
Yes, it’s hearty enough to be the main course. - What wine pairs well with this dish?
A light red like Pinot Noir or a dry white like Chardonnay pairs well. - Can I garnish with something other than parsley?
Yes, basil or chives work beautifully.
Storage Questions
- How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. - Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger skillet to accommodate more ingredients. - Can I add hot sauce or chili flakes?
Yes, for a spicy kick, add chili flakes to the sauce. - How do I keep the pasta from absorbing too much sauce during storage?
Toss with a little olive oil before refrigerating. - Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?
Yes, but warm it through before adding to the sauce.
30 Tips to Make Creamy Beef and Shells Even More Delightful
- Use freshly ground beef for the best flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for depth.
- Incorporate caramelized onions for sweetness.
- Use smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
- Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for tanginess.
- Replace Parmesan with Gruyère for extra creaminess.
- Top with toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
- Use flavored olive oil, like garlic or basil.
- Add a dollop of sour cream for tang.
- Use shell-shaped pasta for maximum sauce coverage.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for heat.
- Add a handful of shredded mozzarella for gooeyness.
- Cook pasta al dente for the perfect bite.
- Stir in baby spinach for added nutrients.
- Garnish with crispy bacon bits for crunch.
- Incorporate roasted bell peppers for sweetness.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
- Serve with freshly cracked black pepper for bold flavor.
- Drizzle truffle oil before serving for a luxurious finish.
- Cook the sauce low and slow for deeper flavor.
- Swap beef with Italian sausage for extra seasoning.
- Use bone broth for a richer sauce.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.
- Stir in fresh basil for a herbaceous kick.
- Sprinkle with Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor.
- Serve in warmed bowls for the perfect presentation.
- Pair with crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
- Double the garlic for more robust flavor.
- Garnish with lemon zest for brightness.
This Creamy Beef and Shells in Garlic Parmesan Sauce is sure to be a hit with its bold flavors and comforting texture! 🧄🧀🍝