Description
A delightful dish combining hearty beef with a rich cheesy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special feasts.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups medium pasta shells
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and set the beef mixture aside.
- In the same skillet, add the flour and whisk it with the remaining oil to create a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and beef broth. Continue to stir until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta shells and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, and use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: pasta, creamy, beef, comfort food, quick dinner, cheesy
