Creamy Beef Shell Pasta in Herb Cheese Sauce
This comforting one-pot pasta dish combines tender pasta shells and savory ground beef coated in a rich, creamy herb cheese sauce. It’s quick, hearty, and perfect for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz medium pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Cook pasta shells until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Drain grease, add garlic, and cook until fragrant.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Pour in heavy cream and milk; stir well.
- Add cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella; melt until smooth.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley.
- Add cooked pasta and mix until coated.
- Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Storage & Reheating Method Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days
- Reheat (Stovetop): Heat on low with a splash of milk or cream
- Reheat (Microwave): Heat in short intervals, stirring in between
- Freezing: Not recommended (sauce may separate)