π₯ Creamy Beef & Cheese Pasta
Ingredients:
β’ 1 lb (450 g) pasta shells (medium size)
β’ 1 lb (450 g) beef (sirloin, steak bites, or ground beef)
β’ 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
β’ 1 medium onion, diced
β’ 3 cloves garlic, minced
β’ 1 bell pepper (optional), diced
β’ 1 tsp Italian seasoning
β’ 1 tsp paprika
β’ 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
β’ Salt & black pepper, to taste
β’ 2 cups beef broth
β’ 1 cup heavy cream (or half & half)
β’ 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
β’ 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
β’ 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
β’ Boil pasta shells in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef
β’ In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.
β’ Add beef (cut into bite-sized pieces or use ground beef). Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
β’ In the same skillet, add onions and cook until soft.
β’ Stir in garlic and bell pepper (if using) and sautΓ© for 1β2 minutes.
β’ Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
β’ Pour in beef broth and let simmer for 3β4 minutes.
β’ Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let it thicken slightly.
4. Combine
β’ Add cooked pasta and beef back into the skillet.
β’ Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated.
5. Cheese Finish
β’ Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top. Cover the skillet for 2β3 minutes until melted (or broil in the oven for a bubbly top).
6. Serve
β’ Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
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π Optional: You can add mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Would you like me to also give you a quick one-pot version of this recipe (less dishes, easier cleanup)?