Beefy Shell Pasta (Print-Friendly Version)

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta

01 - 8 oz pasta shells, medium-sized

→ Meat

02 - 1 lb ground beef

→ Seasonings and Spices

03 - 1 tsp parsley, dried
04 - 1/2 tsp paprika (smoked)
05 - 1 tsp Italian herb mix
06 - 1/2 tsp oregano (dried)
07 - Salt (kosher) as needed
08 - Black pepper, freshly cracked, to taste

→ Vegetables and Aromatics

09 - 5 minced garlic cloves
10 - 1 small diced onion (sweet variety)

→ Sauce Ingredients

11 - 1 (15 oz) can of marinara
12 - 1 cup beef broth
13 - 2 tbsp flour (all-purpose)
14 - 1/4 cup sour cream
15 - 3/4 cup heavy cream

→ Cheese

16 - 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar (fresh)

→ Oil

17 - 1 tbsp olive oil

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Follow the package instructions to cook the pasta in salted boiling water. Drain well after it's done.
02 - Add oil to a hot skillet over medium heat. Toss in the beef and break it up while it cooks, about 3-5 minutes. Once browned, drain any extra grease and set it aside.
03 - Throw the diced onion into the skillet and stir frequently for 2 minutes. Add garlic after and cook just until it smells fragrant, roughly a minute.
04 - Mix in the flour and stir for a minute, letting it slightly cook. Slowly pour in the beef broth and mix until smooth. Add marinara and sprinkle in oregano, Italian herbs, paprika, and parsley.
05 - Bring the mixture to boil, then lower the heat to simmer. Stir occasionally for 6-8 minutes or until it thickens a little.
06 - Mix the cooked pasta into the skillet and fold in the browned beef.
07 - Pour in the heavy cream and stir for 1-2 minutes to warm it up. Adjust with salt and black pepper to your taste.
08 - Stir in the sour cream first, then gently fold in the grated cheddar until it's gooey and melted, about 1-2 minutes.
09 - Dish up immediately and decorate with parsley if you feel like it.

# Helpful Notes:

01 - Don't overcook the pasta—stop at al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
02 - Leave some grease (1-2 tbsp) in the skillet for extra flavor when cooking onions.
03 - If you want a wetter sauce, toss in more marinara.
04 - For an extra veggie boost, cook diced peppers, zucchini, or carrot pieces with the onion.

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