Creamy Beef and Shells

#### Instructions:

1. **Cook the Pasta**: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions, typically 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. **Cook the Ground Beef**: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spoon or spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.

3. **Sauté the Onion and Garlic**: Once the beef is cooked, add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

4. **Make the Creamy Sauce**: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until it’s fully melted and combined with the beef and onion mixture. Stir in the sour cream, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. **Combine with Pasta**: Add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta in the creamy beef mixture. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or water to loosen it up.

6. **Add Cheese (Optional)**: For an extra creamy and cheesy dish, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese into the skillet and stir until it’s melted and incorporated into the sauce.

7. **Serve and Garnish**: Spoon the creamy beef and shells into serving bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

### Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef and Shells

– **Use Lean Ground Beef**: For a lighter version, opt for lean ground beef or ground turkey. Both work well in this recipe, but the leaner cuts will give you a slightly lighter dish without sacrificing flavor.

– **Adjust the Creaminess**: If you prefer a creamier dish, feel free to add more cream cheese or sour cream. You can also add a bit of heavy cream for extra richness.

– **Add Veggies**: Want to sneak some veggies into your meal? Try adding some spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra color, nutrition, and flavor.

– **Spice It Up**: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce to give it a spicy kick.

– **Make It Cheesy**: While mozzarella is a great choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, or a combination of your favorites for an extra cheesy experience.

### Fun Variations to Try

Once you’ve made the classic version of Creamy Beef and Shells, you can try some fun variations to mix things up:

#### 1. **Cheesy Beef and Shells Bake**
Transform this creamy pasta into a baked dish by placing it in a casserole dish, topping it with more cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), and baking it at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.

#### 2. **Beef and Shells with Veggies**
Add some diced vegetables to your beef mixture for added nutrition and color. Try spinach, zucchini, peas, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for a more balanced meal.

#### 3. **Spicy Beef and Shells**
If you’re a fan of heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a bit of chili powder to the sauce for a spicy version of this creamy dish. You can also drizzle a bit of sriracha or hot sauce over the top before serving.

#### 4. **Ground Sausage and Beef Combo**
For extra flavor, mix in some cooked ground sausage with the beef. The sausage will add a savory, herby twist to the dish.

### Why Creamy Beef and Shells Will Become Your Go-To Recipe

**Creamy Beef and Shells** is one of those dishes that’s perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal but don’t have a lot of time to cook. It’s quick, easy, and loaded with flavors that everyone will love. The creamy sauce, savory beef, and hearty pasta make it a complete meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

So, the next time you’re looking for a comforting dinner that’s packed with flavor, try making **Creamy Beef and Shells**. It’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household, and you’ll find yourself making it time and time again!