Creamy Beef and Shells

Description

This creamy beef and shell pasta is a one-pot dish of pasta and beef, in a creamy, beefy tomato and extra-sharp Cheddar sauce. You'll turn a humble pound of ground beef into a family-friendly dinner that is all homemade.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces medium pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 medium white onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef stock
• 2 (8 ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 3/4 cup half-and-half
• 2 cups shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese
• salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
• chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Step 1

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 minutes. The pasta should be cooked through but just under al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Step 2

   In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and break it up with the back of a spoon while it browns. Once cooked through, transfer to a bowl. Set aside.

3. Step 3

   Add onions to the pot and cook, stirring, until they begin to soften, about 3 minutes. Mix in garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook and stir for 30 seconds. Sprinkle flour on top and stir. The mixture will be dry.

4. step 4

   Slowly whisk in beef broth, then add tomato sauce. Whisk until smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Bring sauce to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, stirring frequently, until reduced and slightly thickened, 8 to 10 minutes.

5. Step 5

   Add beef, pasta shells, and half-and-half to sauce and mix until well combined. Stir in cheese until completely melted.

6. Step 6

   Serve in wide bowls with parsley and Parmesan cheese for garnish.