Description
Creamy Cheesy Shells with Savory Ground Beef
Ingredients:
12 oz pasta shells or any pasta of your choice
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (for extra creaminess)
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook the pasta shells until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and ground beef mixture into the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat the shells with the creamy goodness. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water for a silky finish.
Serve: Plate the cheesy shells and sprinkle with extra cheese or a dash of black pepper. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy, savory delight!
Comfort food at its finest—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor in every bite!
