This recipe is for a delicious and comforting dish called Creamy Beef and Shells. It's made with tender ground beef and jumbo pasta shells that are cooked in a creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs. The dish is topped with melted cheese, which adds a rich flavour and makes it even more satisfying. This is a great meal to make when you're short on time but still want something hearty and delicious. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a group of friends, this recipe is sure to please.
Detailed Recipe
Ingredients:
The Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
The Pasta:
- 12 ounces jumbo pasta shells
The Creamy Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions:
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Prep the Shells and Brown the Beef. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package directions for al dente. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off excess grease. Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Make the Creamy Sauce: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for one minute, whisking constantly. Slowly whisk in the milk and continue whisking until the sauce thickens. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Cook until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Assemble: In a large bowl, combine the cooked jumbo shells with the seasoned ground beef and creamy sauce. Pour the mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot, bubbly, and the cheese is golden brown.
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Garnish & Enjoy: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- Cheese, Please: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations based on your preferences. For a different flavour profile, try Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack cheese.
- Flavour Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or stir in a spoonful of pesto for a unique flavour twist.
- Make it a Meal: Serve this creamy beef and shell recipe with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
