Creamy Beef and Shells
Creamy Beef and Shells is a hearty American comfort food casserole that combines pasta shells with seasoned ground beef in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It typically features ingredients like elbow or shell pasta, ground beef, tomato sauce or paste, and a blend of cheeses such as cheddar and cream cheese. The dish is a popular home-cooked meal, often associated with family dinners and potlucks across the United States.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally high in carbohydrates from the pasta and fat from the cheese and beef, while also providing a good amount of protein from the meat and dairy. A typical serving offers a substantial calorie count, often ranging from 500 to 700 calories, along with key nutrients like calcium, iron, and B vitamins.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 40 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Calcium | 200 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Vitamin A | 150 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.5 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 300 mg |
| Zinc | 4 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it represents a classic example of American 'comfort food,' designed to be filling, flavorful, and easy to prepare for a crowd. Nutritionally, its uniqueness lies in being a one-pot-style meal that combines all major food groups, making it a convenient, though indulgent, option for a balanced yet hearty dinner.
