One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells

Ingredients for One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells

For the Pasta and Beef Mixture:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)

For the Sauce:

• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 2 cups medium pasta shells (uncooked)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the beef and cook for 2 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir everything well to combine, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add the pasta shells directly into the sauce. Stir well, bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let the pasta cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The shells should be tender but still hold their shape.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is fully cooked, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine, then gradually add the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and perfectly coating the pasta.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove the pot from heat and let the pasta sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, then serve hot. Enjoy your comforting, cheesy, and flavorful one-pot meal!

Tips for Perfecting One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells

1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. For the creamiest sauce, grate your own cheddar and Parmesan.

2. Stir the Pasta Frequently
Because the pasta cooks directly in the sauce, stirring occasionally ensures even cooking and prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

3. Adjust the Consistency
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm beef broth or milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes.

4. Season to Taste
Taste your sauce before serving. If needed, adjust salt, pepper, or even add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

5. Let It Rest
Allowing the pasta to sit for a couple of minutes before serving helps the sauce thicken and cling better to the shells.

Variations to Try

1. Make It Spicier

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

2. Use Different Cheeses

Experiment with Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Mozzarella for different flavor profiles.

3. Add More Protein

Mix in cooked Italian sausage, turkey, or shredded rotisserie chicken for a protein boost.

4. Sneak in More Veggies

Stir in spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.

5. Try a Lighter Version

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, and use lean ground turkey instead of beef.

Conservation and Storage

Refrigeration:

• Let the pasta cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• This dish freezes well! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Tips:

• Warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
• If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Serving Suggestions

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is a hearty, satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can take it to the next level. Here are some great accompaniments to balance the flavors and textures:

1. Bread for Soaking Up the Sauce

A warm, crusty bread is the perfect way to scoop up every bit of the creamy, cheesy sauce. Try:

• Garlic Bread – Buttery, crispy, and full of flavor.
• Homemade Dinner Rolls – Soft and fluffy rolls pair wonderfully.
• Toasted Baguette Slices – A lighter, crispier option.

2. Fresh Salads for a Lighter Touch

Since the pasta is rich and creamy, a crisp, refreshing salad provides a nice contrast. Consider:

• Classic Caesar Salad – A crisp romaine salad with Parmesan and croutons.
• Simple Green Salad – Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette.
• Tomato and Cucumber Salad – A fresh, tangy side with herbs and olive oil.

3. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables for Balance

Adding vegetables helps round out the meal with extra nutrition and a touch of sweetness. Try:

• Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus – Adds a slightly charred, nutty flavor.
• Steamed Green Beans – Light and fresh with a little crunch.
• Sautéed Mushrooms and Spinach – A great mix-in for extra depth of flavor.

4. Protein Boost for a Heartier Meal

While this dish already contains ground beef, you can add more protein for variety:

• Grilled or Roasted Chicken – Sliced and served on the side.
• Italian Sausage – Adds a slightly spicy, robust flavor.
• Shrimp – Cooked in butter and garlic for a seafood twist.

5. A Light Dessert to Finish the Meal

If you’re serving this dish for a family dinner or special occasion, finish with a simple, refreshing dessert:

Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries – A little indulgence without being too heavy.

Lemon Sorbet – A citrusy contrast to the creamy pasta.

Berry Parfait – Yogurt, fresh berries, and granola for a light treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While medium pasta shells work best for trapping the creamy sauce, you can use penne, rotini, elbow macaroni, or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since different pasta shapes cook at different rates.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, substitute half-and-half, whole milk, or evaporated milk. However, the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.

3. How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Make sure to simmer, not boil the pasta, and stir occasionally. Also, remove the dish from heat as soon as the pasta is al dente, since it will continue absorbing liquid as it rests.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Cook it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a bit of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess.

5. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

This recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, but you can adapt it for a slow cooker:

• Brown the beef and onions first.
• Add all ingredients except pasta, cheese, and cream. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
• Stir in uncooked pasta 30 minutes before serving, then add cream and cheese at the end.

6. What’s the best way to freeze this dish?

Let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove with extra liquid.

7. How can I add more protein?

In addition to ground beef, you can mix in cooked sausage, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even ground turkey for variety.

Conclusion: A Hearty, Flavorful, and Versatile Dish

One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is the perfect comfort meal that’s rich, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a warm, homemade dish, this recipe delivers big flavors with minimal effort.

With easy ingredient swaps, storage-friendly leftovers, and countless ways to customize, this dish is a must-have in your recipe collection. The creamy, savory sauce, tender pasta, and seasoned beef make every bite pure comfort food bliss.

Give it a try tonight, and enjoy a quick, delicious, and mess-free dinner. Happy cooking!

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