Description
Savory Creamy Pasta With Beef And Cheddar is a comforting dish that brings together the richness of ground beef and the delightful creaminess of cheddar cheese, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. This quick and easy recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The flavor-packed cheese sauce coats tender pasta shells, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own! Enjoy this hearty dish that promises to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups medium pasta shells
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ 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 olive oil. Add diced onion and cook until softened (3-4 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet, add flour to the remaining oil and whisk to create a roux; cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and beef broth until the sauce thickens (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese along with paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes until smooth. Return cooked beef to the skillet and combine with sauce before adding cooked pasta shells.
- Toss gently until evenly coated and serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: For added nutrition and flavor, consider mixing in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers during the cooking process. If you want a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with plant-based milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. To enhance creaminess or adjust consistency, simply add more beef broth or milk as needed.