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Creamy beef pasta with cheese served in a bowl

Cheesy Beef Pasta

A delicious and comforting dish that blends the richness of ground beef with creamy cheddar cheese and hearty pasta, perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef Juicy and flavorful, this beef serves as the main protein.
  • 1 medium onion, diced Aromatic and sweet when sautéed.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fragrant and zesty, elevates the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning Adds a kick of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Ensures a robust flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper Offers heat and complexity.
  • 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adds just the right amount of spice.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Essential for thickening the sauce.
  • 2 cups beef broth Forms the flavorful base.
  • 15 ounce can tomato sauce Adds tanginess and depth.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Gives the sauce a luscious consistency.
  • 16 ounces medium pasta shells Perfect for catching the cheesy goodness.
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Brings the characteristic cheesiness.

Method
 

Cooking the Beef and Onions
  1. In a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are tender. Drain excess grease and return the mixture to the pan.
Adding Seasonings and Garlic
  1. Sprinkle in Slap Ya Mama seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add minced garlic and stir thoroughly. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
Incorporating Flour
  1. Sprinkle all-purpose flour over the mixture and stir well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Creating the Sauce
  1. Gradually stir in beef broth, tomato sauce, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, stirring frequently until sauce thickens.
Cooking the Pasta
  1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add medium pasta shells and cook according to package directions. Drain the pasta once cooked.
Combining and Enjoying
  1. Add cooked pasta and shredded cheddar to the beef mixture. Stir until well combined and the cheese melts into the sauce. Serve hot.

Notes

Cheese variations like Monterey Jack or Gouda can be used. Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Dish can be prepared in advance and stored for later.