Ingredients:
1 lb medium pasta shells
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned and cooked through, remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Simmer the sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half), stirring to combine. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy.
Mix the pasta and beef: Stir in the cooked pasta shells and ground beef. Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
Season and garnish: Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Serve: Enjoy this creamy, comforting pasta dish!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Calories: 500 kcal per serving
