Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Shells

Recipe Introduction: Say Hello to Cheesy Ground Beef and Shells!

Fancy some proper comfort food dinner ? You know those days when only something warm, hearty, and utterly delicious will do? Let’s talk about cheesy ground beef and shells .

This isn't just any easy ground beef recipe ; it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Seriously, who can resist a big plate of this cheesy pasta goodness? It's the ultimate American Goulash !

A Classic Reimagined

Think of it as a souped-up Hamburger Helper recipe , but way better. It's rooted in that classic beef and shells with cheese combo we all know and love.

The best part? This one-pot meal is ready in just 30 minutes . Perfect for those crazy quick weeknight dinner moments, right? It serves about 4 people so that's dinner sorted for the family or even a cheeky second portion for yourself.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Delight

Honestly, the sheer comfort factor is what sells it for me. But beyond that, it is a great source of protein to keep you going and loads of calcium from all that glorious cheddar.

Picture this: a cold evening, a cozy blanket, and a bowl of this creamy macaroni beef heaven. Mmm. That makes this recipe special.

It's also super adaptable – chuck in some extra veggies if you like.

Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty – what you’ll need for this culinary masterpiece!

Alright, let's talk ingredients for this dreamy cheesy ground beef and shells ! It's basically a deconstructed ground beef casserole .

This is a comfort food dinner guaranteed to hit the spot. We’re making it simple enough for even the most kitchen-shy cook.

So, grab your stuff and let's dive in!

Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Shells Recipe Card

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Preparation time:10 Mins

Cooking time:20 Mins

Servings:4

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) medium pasta shells
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 or lean)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (optional)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups (475ml) beef broth (or water + bouillon)
• 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)
• 2 cups (225g) shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta shells and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
• Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
• Stir in tomato paste, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook briefly to toast the spices.
• Pour in beef broth and milk. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer until slightly thickened.
• Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cooked pasta shells. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Adjust consistency with a splash of milk if needed.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley (if using) and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:550

Protein:35g

Fat:30g

Carbs:40g

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:American

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients - The Heart of the Macaroni Beef

• Pasta: 8 oz (225g or about 2 cups) medium pasta shells.
• Ground Beef: 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 works great).
• Onion: 1 small, chopped, or about 1 cup .
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
• Olive Oil or Butter: 1 tbsp (optional, for extra flavor!).
• Tomato Paste: 2 tbsp .
• Paprika: 1 tsp .
• Italian Seasoning: ½ tsp .
• Beef Broth: 2 cups (475ml).
• Milk: 1 cup (240ml), whole or 2%.
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (225g), shredded.
• Parsley: Fresh, chopped (optional garnish).

For the ground beef, look for a good color and minimal liquid in the package. Don't cheap out on the cheese, it's important for making this easy ground beef recipe taste amazing.

Freshly grated cheddar always melts better than pre-shredded! Remember that is important if you want to avoid to follow a Hamburger Helper Recipe

Seasoning Notes - Flavor That Pops

So, for seasoning, think Italian-American magic. Paprika and Italian seasoning are your secret weapons. They create that classic, warm flavor.

Don't forget the salt and pepper. Taste as you go! Seriously, don't be shy. And if you're feeling adventurous? A pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a lovely kick.

This is how you make Beef and Shells with Cheese sing!

Equipment Needed - Keep it Simple!

• Large Pot: For the pasta.
• Large Skillet: To brown the beef.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: You know, for measuring.

Honestly? If you don’t have a colander, a plate and a steady hand works. No fancy gadgets required here. I love a one-pot meal like this! We're aiming for quick weeknight dinner vibes, not a MasterChef audition! I mean who doesn't love Cheesy Pasta anyway?

Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef and Shells: Comfort Food Done Right

Oh my gosh, are you ready for the ultimate comfort food dinner ? This cheesy ground beef and shells recipe is like a warm hug on a plate.

We're talking childhood memories, but with a grown-up twist. Think of it as an elevated hamburger helper recipe , made with real ingredients and lots of love.

This dish, also known as American Goulash , is a quick weeknight dinner that will become a family favorite. Honestly, what's not to love about this one-pot meal that makes the perfect macaroni beef ?

Prep Steps: Get Your Act Together (Mise en Place)

First things first, let's get organized. This is key to a stress-free cooking experience. Chop your onion, mince your garlic, and measure out all your spices.

Having everything ready to go (mise en place, if we wanna be fancy) will seriously speed things up. And hey, while you're at it, maybe put on some music and pour yourself a glass of wine.

You deserve it!

Step-by-Step to Cheesy Perfection

1. Cook the Pasta: Get a large pot of salted water boiling. Add 8 oz of pasta shells and cook until al dente – that means still a little firm. Drain those babies and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef . Drain any excess fat. Nobody wants a greasy mess.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Add that chopped onion to the skillet and cook 'til softened. Toss in 2 minced garlic cloves until fragrant.
4. Flavor Boost: Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp paprika, and ½ tsp Italian seasoning. Cook to toast the spices.
5. Create the Sauce: Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of milk. Simmer, scraping up browned bits.
6. Combine and Melt: Reduce heat, stir in pasta. Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar. Stir until melted and creamy.
7. Season and Serve: Taste and season. Garnish with parsley and serve the beef and shells with cheese hot!

Pro Tips for a Delicious Ground Beef Casserole

Honestly, don't overcook the pasta. Al dente is the way to go. Also, grate your own cheese. Seriously, pre-shredded stuff doesn't melt as nicely.

If you want a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef. This easy ground beef recipe is so versatile, you can really make it your own.

Alright, so you're diving into making cheesy ground beef and shells , huh? This recipe is seriously the ultimate comfort food dinner .

I'm talking next-level satisfaction. Before you start though, let's quickly go through some notes. These are the little things I learned along the way while perfecting my Hamburger Helper Recipe game.

Trust me, they'll make your Beef and Shells with Cheese even better!

Recipe Rundown: Serving Suggestions

How you plate this bad boy is key. Honestly, just a big ol' bowlful is fine by me. But if you're feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top – makes it look all gourmet-like, you know? As for sides, a simple green salad cuts through the richness nicely.

Or some garlic bread. Because, well, cheese and garlic bread. Obvious, right? A cold beer, like a classic American lager, pairs well with a Quick Weeknight Dinner such as this American Goulash .

Secrects to Save: Storage Tips

Got leftovers of this Macaroni Beef dish? You’re in luck! This stuff keeps great. Just let it cool down a bit, then pop it into an airtight container and stick it in the fridge.

It'll be good for about 3-4 days. When you're ready to grub, just microwave it until it's heated through. Add a splash of milk if it seems a little dry, that will ensure that it taste as fresh .

As for freezing, I wouldn't really recommend it. The cheesy pasta sauce tends to separate.

Remixes: Variations on a Theme

Want to shake things up a bit? I got you! For a cheesy ground beef and shells with a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of your favourite hot sauce when you're browning the beef.

Alternatively, want a lighter version of this Easy Ground Beef Recipe ? Use ground turkey instead. You can even swap out half the ground beef for some finely chopped veggies, sneak in a few more greens!

Nutshell Nutrition: Nutrition Basics

Okay, let's keep it real – this isn't exactly health food. But everything in moderation, right? Each serving clocks in at around 550 calories, with about 35g of protein, 30g of fat, and 40g of carbs.

But hey, it's Ground Beef Casserole time! It's packed with protein and calcium (thanks to all that cheese!).

So, there you have it! My secret tips for the ultimate cheesy ground beef and shells . Now go forth and conquer that kitchen! You've got this.

And remember, even if it doesn't turn out perfect , it's still gonna be delicious. Happy cooking!