Creamy Beef and Shells

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 6

Hearty, flavorful, rich, and cheesy – this Creamy Beef and Shells is a great quick dinner excellent for the entire family!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 tbsp olive oil

5 cloves garlic (minced)

8 oz. medium pasta shells

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 small sweet onion (diced)

1 tsp Italian seasoning

¾ c. heavy cream

1/tsp smoked paprika

1 c. beef stock

1 (15 ounces can) marinara sauce

¼ c. sour cream

1 tsp dried parsley

½ tsp dried oregano

1 ½ c. cheddar cheese (freshly grated)

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

How to make Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Following the package directions, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain when done.

Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes or until no longer pink, breaking the meat up using a wooden spoon. When done, drain the excess grease. Set the browned beef aside.

Step 3: Add the diced onion to the same skillet and saute for about 2 minutes. Then, add the garlic and continue to cook for another minute until aromatic. Next, stir in the flour and cook for a minute more until lightly browned.

Step 4: Into the skillet, slowly whisk in the beef stock. Then, add the marinara sauce, followed by the Italian seasoning, dried parsley, oregano, and paprika. Stir well.

Step 5: Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, decrease the heat and simmer for about 6 to 8 minutes until the mixture has reduced and slightly thickened, stirring often.

Step 6: Add the pasta along with the browned beef. Stir well.

Step 7: Whisk in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until completely heated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Then, add the sour cream and stir until blended.

Step 8: Lastly, fold in the cheddar cheese and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until melted.

Step 9: Take the skillet off the heat and serve the creamy beef and shells right away. If desired, garnish with some parsley. Enjoy!

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