Instructions:
Step 1
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 2
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for about 2 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3
Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, then stir everything together. Add the Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4
Add the uncooked pasta shells and stir until they are evenly covered with the liquid. Make sure most of the pasta is submerged.
Step 5
Slowly pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half while stirring gently. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
Step 6
Let the mixture simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 7
Check that the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has thickened into a creamy sauce. Remove the pot from the heat once the pasta is fully cooked.
Step 8
Add the shredded cheese and stir until completely melted and smooth. The sauce should coat every pasta shell evenly.
Step 9
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a little more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs to suit your preference.
Step 10
Serve the beef and shells while hot with extra cheese or fresh parsley on top if desired. Enjoy immediately for the creamiest texture.
Tips and Variations
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese and creates a creamier sauce.
Make It Spicier
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a gentle kick of heat without overpowering the dish.
Add More Vegetables
Stir in spinach, mushrooms, peas, or diced bell peppers during cooking for extra color, flavor, and nutrition.
Try Different Cheeses
Mix cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan to create a richer and more flavorful cheese sauce.
Keep the Sauce Creamy
If the sauce becomes too thick after resting, stir in a splash of milk or beef broth before serving to loosen it.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a little milk or broth.
Freeze for Later
Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Perfect Side Dishes
Serve with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables to turn this comforting pasta into a complete meal.
