This comforting dish combines tender pasta shells, hearty ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s the ultimate family-friendly meal that’s quick, delicious, and made in just one pot!
Why You’ll Love It
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup with everything cooked in a single pot.
- Rich and Cheesy: A creamy sauce loaded with melted cheese for a comfort-food favorite.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: Perfect for picky eaters and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 pound (80-85% lean).
- Pasta Shells: 12 oz of medium-sized pasta shells.
- Olive Oil: 1 tbsp for sautéing.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Onion: 1 small onion, finely diced.
- Tomato Sauce: 1 can (15 oz).
- Beef Broth: 3 cups.
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup for creaminess.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded, plus extra for garnish.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup grated.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley or green onions for serving.
How to Make One-Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Remove any excess grease, leaving a little for added flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Build the Base
- Stir in the tomato sauce and beef broth. Mix well, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits.
- Add the pasta shells, ensuring they’re submerged in the liquid.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
Step 5: Make It Cheesy
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
- Add the cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions, and extra shredded cheese if desired.
Pro Tips
- Customize Your Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Use pepper jack cheese or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Make It Healthier: Swap heavy cream for whole milk or Greek yogurt.
- Leftovers Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of milk to revive the creamy texture.
This One-Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is a hearty and satisfying meal that brings comfort to the table in no time. Pair it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete feast!
