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–+ servings

Creamy Beef and Shells in Garlic Parmesan Sauce

A quick, family-friendly dish featuring creamy sauce, ground beef, and pasta that brings warmth and comfort to weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 540 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Beef

  • 12 ounces rotini pasta Or any pasta shape you like.
  • 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For browning the beef.

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup heavy cream For a creamy texture.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Gives richness to the sauce.
  • 2 cups beef broth Use low-sodium if preferred.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Essential for the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adjust to taste.

Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped For garnishing.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before discarding the rest. Set the cooked pasta aside.
  • While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  • Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
  • Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce back to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens.
  • Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly, adding reserved pasta water if necessary.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and creamy.
  • Serve the Creamy Beef and Shells immediately. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 31gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 680mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g
Keyword Creamy Beef, Family-Friendly, garlic parmesan, Pasta, Quick Dinner
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