There’s something special about coming home to a warm, creamy bowl of comfort after a long day, and Crockpot Creamy Beef and Shells delivers exactly that feeling. This family-favorite meal has become popular because it combines rich, hearty flavors with a smooth, comforting texture that both kids and adults love. Every bite feels like classic homemade comfort food, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or casual family dinners.
One of the best things about this recipe is how satisfying and filling it is while still being incredibly simple to enjoy. The slow-cooked flavors create a rich, creamy dish that tastes like it has been simmering all day, making it an excellent option for meal prep or feeding a hungry crowd. Its hearty combination of protein, pasta, and creamy sauce makes it a comforting meal that’s sure to become a regular favorite in your dinner rotation.
Creamy Beef and Shells
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small sweet onion, finely diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 (15-ounce) can marinara sauce
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups freshly grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta shells according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onion for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Roux: Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking until lightly browned to help thicken the sauce.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the beef stock, followed by marinara sauce. Stir in Italian seasoning, parsley, oregano, and paprika.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Beef: Add the cooked pasta and the browned beef back into the skillet. Stir to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Incorporate Dairy: Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Then, stir in the sour cream.
- Add Cheese: Fold in the grated cheddar cheese and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese has fully melted.
- Serve: Serve the creamy beef and shells immediately, optionally garnished with parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy!
