Cheesy Beef Pasta Shells

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Introduction

This creamy, cheesy beef pasta dish is pure comfort food. Made with tender pasta shells coated in a rich, savory sauce, chunks of seasoned beef, and plenty of melted cheese, it’s a hearty meal perfect for family dinners. The combination of spices, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese makes this recipe irresistible.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz (340 g) pasta shells
  • 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or ground beef (cut into bite-sized pieces if using steak)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced (optional for sweetness & color)
  • 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken sauce)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided – half for sauce, half for topping)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add pasta shells and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  1. Prepare the Beef
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add beef pieces, season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and sear until browned.
  • Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
  1. Make the Sauce Base
  • In the same skillet, add butter and sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until soft.
  • Sprinkle flour over and stir for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
  • Slowly whisk in beef broth, ensuring no lumps remain.
  1. Finish the Creamy Sauce
  • Stir in heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, chili flakes, and Italian seasoning.
  • Let simmer until slightly thickened (5–7 minutes).
  • Add Parmesan cheese and half of the mozzarella. Stir until melted into a creamy sauce.
  1. Combine Pasta and Beef
  • Add cooked pasta shells and seared beef into the sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly.
  1. Bake (Optional for Extra Cheesiness)
  • Transfer mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top, and broil for 3–5 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  1. Garnish & Serve
  • Sprinkle fresh parsley on top.
  • Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.

History & Background

Cheesy beef pasta is a modern comfort food inspired by Italian-American cooking. While traditional Italian pasta dishes focus on simplicity, the American twist often incorporates creamy sauces and lots of cheese. This dish takes inspiration from both—using pasta shells (which hold sauce perfectly) and layering in a rich, cheesy cream sauce.

Benefits

  • Protein-rich from beef and cheese
  • Calcium boost from mozzarella and Parmesan
  • Comfort food that satisfies cravings
  • Customizable – add mushrooms, spinach, or substitute chicken/turkey

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: ~520
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbs: 45g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Fiber: 3g

Conclusion

This cheesy beef pasta shells recipe is the ultimate weeknight dinner. It’s hearty, filling, and full of bold flavors with a creamy, cheesy finish. Perfect for pasta lovers, cheese lovers, and anyone craving comfort food.

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