Creamy Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells
Rich, creamy, and packed with savory beef and melted cheese — this pasta is pure comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough for guests!
INGREDIENTS (Serves 4–5)
12 oz medium pasta shells
1 lb beef steak (cut into bite-sized pieces) or ground beef
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Italian blend cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Optional:
Red pepper flakes (for heat)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta shells and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside (reserve ¼ cup pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later).
2️⃣ Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add beef and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes).
If using ground beef, break it apart while cooking.
Drain excess grease if necessary.
3️⃣ Add Garlic & Seasoning
Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in beef broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to slightly reduce.
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream.
Simmer gently for another 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5️⃣ Add the Cheese
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
Add mozzarella and mix until smooth and creamy.
If sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
6️⃣ Combine
Add cooked pasta shells to the skillet.
Gently toss until every shell is coated in that rich, cheesy sauce.
Let everything simmer together for 2–3 minutes so flavors blend.
7️⃣ Finish & Serve
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Sprinkle extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Extra Tips
For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions.
Want it extra cheesy? Add ½ cup cream cheese for a richer sauce.
Make it baked: Transfer to a baking dish, top with more mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
Creamy, savory, and ultra-satisfying — this dish smells like garlic butter and melted cheese heaven.
