Simple One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells Recipe for Cozy Nights

Crafting a satisfying one pot cheesy beef and shells meal becomes a delightful culinary adventure for busy home cooks.

Comfort arrives quickly with this streamlined recipe that simplifies dinnertime preparations.

Hearty ingredients meld together seamlessly in a single pan, creating minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Savory ground beef mingles perfectly with tender pasta shells, promising a crowd-pleasing option for weeknight dining.

Melted cheese adds a luxurious richness that transforms basic ingredients into something spectacular.

Cheese lovers will appreciate how effortlessly this dish comes together with minimal kitchen effort.

You can whip up this crowd-pleasing meal in under thirty minutes, making it an ideal solution for hectic evenings.

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells for Cozy Dinners

• Using just one pot means fewer dishes to wash, saving time and energy after a long day of work or caring for the family.
• Combines the irresistible flavors of cheesy pasta and seasoned ground beef, creating a hearty meal that appeals to both kids and adults with its creamy, rich texture.
• Utilizes affordable ingredients like ground beef, pasta shells, and common pantry spices, delivering maximum flavor without breaking the bank while feeding the whole family.

What You’ll Need for Cheesy Beef and Shells

• Ground Beef: Rich base for the dish, provides hearty flavor and protein.
• Onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the meat mixture.

• Salt: Enhances overall flavor profile.
• Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
• Garlic: Provides aromatic and intense flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings herbal and Mediterranean notes.
• Paprika: Offers mild warmth and subtle color.

• Olive Oil: Creates initial cooking base for meat and vegetables.
• Beef Broth: Adds rich, savory liquid for cooking pasta.
• Tomato Sauce: Provides tangy and slightly sweet sauce element.

• Pasta Shells: Captures sauce in curved shape, creates texture.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creates smooth, creamy consistency.
• Shredded Cheese: Melts into sauce for ultimate cheesy flavor.

• Fresh Parsley: Adds bright color and fresh herb finish.

How to Cook One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Brown The Protein And Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium flame. Add ground beef and chopped onion, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook until beef turns golden brown and onion becomes translucent. Drain any extra grease if necessary.

Step 2: Enhance Flavor Profile

Introduce minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Sauté for one minute until the kitchen fills with an aromatic fragrance.

Step 3: Combine Liquid And Pasta

• Beef broth
• Tomato sauce
• Pasta shells

Stir all ingredients until well mixed.

Step 4: Simmer And Cook Pasta

Bring mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let contents simmer for 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Ensure pasta reaches perfect tenderness.

Step 5: Create Creamy Cheese Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Shredded cheese blend

Mix thoroughly until cheese melts completely, creating a smooth and luxurious sauce.

Step 6: Final Seasoning Adjustment

Taste and modify salt, pepper, or other seasonings according to preference.

Step 7: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately while hot and bubbling.

Tips for Better Beef and Shells Flavor

• Drain Excess Fat Wisely: Remove extra grease from ground beef to prevent a greasy dish and reduce unnecessary calories.
• Choose Quality Cheese Blend: Mix sharp cheddar with mozzarella for maximum melting and richer flavor profile.
• Control Pasta Texture: Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent shells from sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Customize Protein Options: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for alternative dietary preferences.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or red pepper flakes to boost overall taste complexity.

Store Cheesy Beef and Shells Without the Hassle

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to restore creamy texture and prevent drying out.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly and maintain pasta's moisture.
• Transfer to freezer-safe container, seal tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

Sides to Serve with Cheesy Beef and Shells

• Select a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the rich, meaty flavors of the beef and cheese.
• Create a light, refreshing side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the hearty pasta dish.
• Prepare warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the creamy cheese sauce and add a delightful crunch to the meal.
• Roast seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots with herbs to provide a nutritious and colorful accompaniment that cuts through the dish's richness.

Fun Variations on Beef and Shells You’ll Love

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace heavy cream and cheese with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream and nutritional yeast. Use plant-based ground meat or lentils for a vegan protein option.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap pasta shells with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Use ground turkey or chicken for leaner protein and reduce total carbohydrate content.
• Spicy Southwest Version: Add diced green chilies, cumin, and replace Italian seasoning with chili powder. Top with fresh cilantro and swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese for extra heat.
• Mediterranean Herb Remix: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped spinach, and replace Italian seasoning with oregano and basil. Add kalamata olives for authentic Mediterranean flavor profile.

FAQ Sheet for Cheesy Beef and Shells

• Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile while keeping the same cooking method.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is not inherently spicy. The paprika and Italian seasoning provide mild flavor without heat, but you can add red pepper flakes if you want a spicy kick.

• What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce might be slightly less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, use unsweetened non-dairy milk alternatives.

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare this dish and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to restore creaminess if the sauce has thickened.

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells Recipe

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4.8 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells delivers comfort with rich, melted cheese and perfectly seasoned ground beef. Satisfying pasta shells cradle savory meat, creating a quick and delicious meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
• 2 cups (473 milliliters) beef broth
• 2 cups (200 grams) uncooked medium pasta shells
• 2 cups (226 grams) shredded cheddar cheese

Seasoning and Aromatics:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Additional Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) tomato sauce
• ½ cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream or milk
• ¼ cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Warm a spacious skillet or pot over medium-high temperature, creating a sizzling surface for the culinary journey ahead.
2. Introduce ground beef and diced onions into the heated vessel, allowing them to dance and caramelize while releasing rich, savory aromas.
3. Infuse the meat mixture with minced garlic, aromatic Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of smoky paprika, stirring to distribute flavors evenly.
4. Pour in beef broth and tomato sauce, creating a luxurious liquid base for the pasta shells to nestle into.
5. Gently cascade pasta shells into the bubbling liquid, ensuring each shell is submerged and coated with the flavorful sauce.
6. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, covering the pot and allowing the shells to absorb the robust liquid and become perfectly tender, approximately 12-15 minutes.
7. Introduce heavy cream and a medley of melting cheeses, stirring continuously until the sauce transforms into a velvety, glossy embrace of the pasta.
8. Taste the creation, adjusting seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper to elevate the overall flavor profile.
9. Finish the dish with a delicate sprinkle of fresh parsley, adding a vibrant touch of color and herbaceous brightness.
10. Serve immediately, presenting a steaming, cheese-laden masterpiece that promises comfort and satisfaction.

Notes

• Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and create a lighter dish.
• For a healthier twist, swap regular pasta shells with whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach during the onion cooking stage to boost nutritional value and introduce more color and texture.
• Consider using low-sodium beef broth and reduced-fat cheese options for a heart-friendly version of this comforting meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 16 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg