One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, meaty, and full of tender pasta shells, all made in a single pot for minimal cleanup. This family-friendly dinner is quick, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One Pot = Less Mess: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein, pasta, and cheese for a complete meal.
• Fast and Easy: On the table in about 30 minutes.
• Kid and Adult Approved: Classic cheesy flavors everyone will love.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 8 oz medium pasta shells
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley or Parmesan for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the beef
   In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add flavor
   Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat everything evenly.
3. Add liquids and pasta
   Slowly pour in beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, then add pasta shells. Stir, reduce heat to medium-low, and cover.
4. Simmer
   Cook, covered, for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
5. Add cream and cheese
   Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve
   Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers with the onions.
• Different Cheese: Use a mix of mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a twist.
• Swap the Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a pot over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Any short pasta like penne, elbows, or rotini works well in this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. You can make it a day in advance and reheat it before serving. It may thicken as it sits—just add a bit of broth or milk when reheating.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half, whole milk, or a mix of milk and a little butter.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture.

What should I serve with it?

A fresh green salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread all pair great with this dish.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Be sure to cook the pasta just until tender (al dente) and avoid overcooking during the simmering stage.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just use a large enough pot and add a few extra minutes for cooking the pasta.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, but the texture may change slightly. Reheat gently and stir well after thawing.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for thickening.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, swap the beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.

Conclusion

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is the definition of comfort food made easy. It’s creamy, meaty, cheesy, and packed with flavor—all in under 30 minutes with just one pot to wash. Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal-prepping for the week, this satisfying pasta dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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