Creamy Beef and Shells

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In the hustle and bustle of daily life, there’s something inherently soothing about a warm, comforting meal that requires minimal effort. Enter our delightful rendition of Creamy Beef and Pasta, a one-pot wonder that promises to transform your evenings into cozy culinary experiences. Picture tender ground beef, aromatic onions, and garlic, all mingling together in a rich tomato-infused sauce, embracing each pasta shell with savory goodness. Whether you’re wrangling a busy household or simply seeking solace in the kitchen, this recipe is your ticket to culinary tranquility.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (We recommend a slightly fatty blend like 85/15)
  • 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 12 ounces medium pasta shells, uncooked
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed to room temperature
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan, for garnish
  • Chopped fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. As it starts to brown, add the chopped onion, continuing to cook until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onion turns soft and translucent.
  2. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and introduce the minced garlic and Italian seasoning into the mix. Stir them in and let the flavors meld for about a minute, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
  3. Now, it’s time to enrich the dish with the velvety tomato sauce and beef broth. Pour them into the skillet, letting them mingle with the beef and aromatics, creating a luscious base for your pasta.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then add the uncooked pasta shells, ensuring they are evenly submerged. Lower the heat to a simmer and let the pasta cook until tender, typically around 15-18 minutes. If the pasta starts to look a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add a splash more of beef broth to keep things moist.
  5. Once the pasta reaches its desired tenderness, remove the skillet from the heat and gently stir in the warmed heavy cream, infusing the dish with luxurious creaminess. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences.
  6. To elevate your culinary creation, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan over the top, allowing it to melt into the dish, imparting its irresistible nuttiness. Finish with a flourish of chopped fresh thyme or parsley, adding a burst of vibrant color and herbaceous freshness.

Conclusion:

As the aroma of savory beef and aromatic herbs fills your kitchen and your taste buds dance with delight, our Creamy Beef and Pasta recipe brings more than just a meal to the table—it brings moments of comfort and joy. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this one-pot wonder is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome cooking.

Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones gathered around the dinner table or savoring a quiet moment of solitude, this dish has a way of nurturing both body and spirit. So, let go of the day’s worries, embrace the warmth of your kitchen, and indulge in the timeless pleasure of a homemade meal that speaks straight to the heart.

With each creamy bite of pasta and tender morsel of beef, may you find solace, satisfaction, and a renewed appreciation for the magic that happens when ingredients come together with love. Here’s to many more cozy nights in, filled with the simple joys of good food and cherished company.

image source : Small Town Woman