Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells

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Introduction

This dish combines tender pasta shells with juicy, seasoned beef in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to please pasta lovers.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 16 oz (450 g) medium pasta shells
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Beef & Sauce:

  • 1 ½ lbs (700 g) beef sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into small strips (or ground beef if preferred)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt (to taste)

Creamy Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package directions.
  • Drain and toss with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  1. Prepare the Beef:
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add butter and sear the beef strips until browned (about 4–5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
  1. Make the Sauce Base:
  • In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
  • Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  • Slowly whisk in beef broth, scraping up browned bits.
  • Add cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  1. Cheese It Up:
  • Reduce heat to low. Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
  1. Combine Everything:
  • Add pasta shells and beef back into the skillet.
  • Toss until everything is coated in the cheesy sauce.
  1. Finish & Serve:
  • Sprinkle with extra cheese on top and let it melt slightly.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley.
  • Serve hot with garlic bread or salad.

History

This recipe is inspired by American comfort food traditions where pasta is combined with creamy sauces and meat. Shells are used because they hold the sauce beautifully. Variations of this dish appear in Southern-style cheesy beef casseroles and Italian-American skillet pastas.

Benefits

  • Protein-packed from beef and cheese.
  • Comforting & filling for family meals.
  • Customizable with different meats (chicken, sausage, ground turkey).
  • One-pot style cooking reduces cleanup.

Formation

  • Pasta forms the base, providing carbs and texture.
  • Beef adds richness and depth.
  • Creamy cheese sauce ties everything together into a luxurious dish.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 6 servings)

  • Calories: ~620
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbs: 48g
  • Fat: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g

Conclusion

Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells are a soul-warming, family-favorite dish—perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With gooey cheese, flavorful beef, and tender pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food.

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