Creamy Shells and Beef Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

Introduction:

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the satisfaction of creamy shells and beef. This classic recipe combines tender ground beef with luscious pasta shells and a rich, creamy sauce for a meal that warms both the heart and the taste buds. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this comforting dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Beef Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cooking the Pasta:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and toss it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Preparing the Beef Sauce:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked.
4. Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

Making the Creamy Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
4. Simmer the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
5. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combining Everything:

1. Combine the cooked pasta shells and the creamy sauce in a large mixing bowl.
2. Gently fold in the cooked beef sauce until everything is well coated.

Serving Your Creamy Shells and Beef:

• Serve hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to boost the nutritional content of this dish.
• Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique flavor twist.

Conclusion:

Creamy shells and beef is a timeless comfort food recipe that never fails to satisfy. With its perfect combination of tender pasta, flavorful beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. So, why not try your hand at making this comforting classic and enjoy a delicious meal that brings joy with every bite?

Summary:

• Title: Creamy Shells and Beef Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic
• Ingredients: Pasta shells, olive oil, salt, ground beef, onion, garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, butter, all-purpose flour, milk, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
• Instructions: Cook pasta, prepare beef sauce, make creamy sauce, combine everything.
• Serving: Garnish with Parmesan cheese and basil leaves.
• Tips and Variations: Add veggies, use alternative meats, experiment with different cheeses.
• Conclusion: Creamy shells and beef is the ultimate comfort food recipe, combining pasta, beef, and a rich, creamy sauce for a satisfying meal.