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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Warm a spacious skillet or pot over medium-high temperature, creating a sizzling surface for the culinary journey ahead.
- Introduce ground beef and diced onions into the heated vessel, allowing them to dance and caramelize while releasing rich, savory aromas.
- Infuse the meat mixture with minced garlic, aromatic Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of smoky paprika, stirring to distribute flavors evenly.
- Pour in beef broth and tomato sauce, creating a luxurious liquid base for the pasta shells to nestle into.
- Gently cascade pasta shells into the bubbling liquid, ensuring each shell is submerged and coated with the flavorful sauce.
- 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.
- Introduce heavy cream and a medley of melting cheeses, stirring continuously until the sauce transforms into a velvety, glossy embrace of the pasta.
- Taste the creation, adjusting seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper to elevate the overall flavor profile.
- Finish the dish with a delicate sprinkle of fresh parsley, adding a vibrant touch of color and herbaceous brightness.
- 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