1. Prepare the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to reserve about 1 cup of pasta water for later use in case you need to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or deep pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef. Break the beef up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks, and brown it until it’s fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary.

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic. The garlic will release its aroma and infuse the dish with flavor.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

Add the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and heavy cream to the skillet with the beef and onions. Stir everything together until the soup and cream are well combined and the mixture becomes smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Add the Seasonings

Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. The Italian seasoning adds an herby note that complements the beef and pasta, while the paprika gives the dish a touch of warmth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed to suit your preference.

6. Add the Pasta

Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, add the cooked pasta shells to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

7. Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella) into the skillet and stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes extra creamy. The cheese adds richness and a gooey texture that makes this dish extra comforting.

8. Serve and Garnish

Once the cheese is melted and the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce, remove the skillet from the heat. Divide the creamy beef and shells into serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!