Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a rolling boil. Cook shell pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook 6-8 minutes, breaking up with wooden spoon until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add butter to the same pan. Once melted, add diced onion and cook 4-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Pour in beef broth and drained tomatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 3-4 minutes to meld flavors.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and slowly add heavy cream, stirring constantly. Simmer gently 5-6 minutes until sauce begins to thicken.
- Remove from heat and gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Add pasta water if sauce is too thick.
- Add cooked pasta to the creamy beef mixture, folding gently until well coated. Let stand 2-3 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasonings. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
For best results, use 80/20 ground beef for optimal flavor. Don't skip the pasta water - it helps bind the sauce. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3 days.