Name: Creamy One-Pot Beef & Shells
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 cups medium pasta shells; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 3 cups beef broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

When I need to get dinner on the table fast but still want something that feels hearty and satisfying, this Creamy One-Pot Beef & Shells recipe is always a winner. It’s the kind of dish that hits all the comfort food notes—creamy, cheesy, beefy, and ready in about 30 minutes. Plus, the one-pot approach means fewer dishes, which is a major bonus after a busy day.

What I love most about this dish is how approachable it is. The ingredients are pantry staples, and the flavors are familiar yet deeply satisfying. Whether I’m feeding picky eaters or craving something nostalgic for myself, this meal never disappoints. It’s like a grown-up version of Hamburger Helper—but way better.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy One-Pot Beef & Shells

This recipe is fast, filling, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for weeknights, meal prepping, or simply when you want a cozy dinner with minimal cleanup. The creamy cheese sauce hugs every shell, and the seasoned beef gives it that satisfying bite. It’s also kid-friendly and reheats beautifully, so leftovers are something to look forward to.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

I stick with medium pasta shells for this recipe because they catch all that creamy sauce in every bite. But if you don’t have shells on hand, elbow macaroni or rotini will work too. The goal is to use a pasta shape that holds sauce well and cooks evenly in the pot with the other ingredients.

Options for Substitutions

Ground Turkey or Chicken: A lighter alternative to beef, still delicious and protein-packed.
Plant-Based Meat: Works great if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan version.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Just keep an eye on the cooking time—it may vary.
Dairy-Free Cheese: Swap the regular cheese for your favorite dairy-free option and use a plant-based milk for a creamy, vegan version.
Add Veggies: Diced bell peppers, peas, or spinach can be stirred in to make it more nutritious without changing the flavor too much.

Ingredients for this Creamy One-Pot Beef & Shells

Ground Beef – The base of the dish. Rich, savory, and hearty, it provides the meaty flavor that anchors everything.
Medium Pasta Shells – Perfectly shaped to trap the creamy sauce and little bits of beef in each bite.
Onion – Adds a layer of sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
Garlic – Essential for building a flavorful base. Fresh minced garlic brings that irresistible aroma.
Beef Broth – Helps cook the pasta and adds another level of savory richness to the sauce.
Tomato Paste – Provides a touch of acidity and enhances the umami of the beef.
Heavy Cream – Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the sauce for that classic cheesy finish.
Salt & Pepper – To season the beef and bring out all the other flavors.
Italian Seasoning – Adds herby notes that elevate the dish.
Parsley (optional, for garnish) – Brightens up the final dish with a bit of freshness.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s browned and no longer pink, drain the excess fat, if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the diced onion to the cooked beef and sauté until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in Tomato Paste and Seasonings

Add the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the meat and onion mixture evenly.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Add Pasta

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the pasta shells and stir to combine. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-14 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes creamy and rich.

Step 6: Simmer to Finish

Let the mixture simmer uncovered for another 2-3 minutes to allow everything to thicken slightly and flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy, beefy comfort in every spoonful.

How Long to Prepare the Creamy One-Pot Beef & Shells

Prep Time: The prep work is minimal for this dish—just about 10 minutes. That includes dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, and getting all your ingredients ready. If you’re really in a pinch, you can use pre-chopped onion and jarred garlic to cut it down even more.

Cooking Time: Once everything is prepped, the actual cooking takes around 20 minutes. Browning the beef, cooking the pasta in the same pot, and melting in the cheese and cream all happen quickly. Altogether, you’re looking at a total time of roughly 30 minutes from start to finish.

Tips for Perfect Creamy One-Pot Beef & Shells

Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for a smoother melt.
Stir occasionally as the pasta cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a splash of broth or cream if it gets too thick.
Use a large enough skillet or pot so everything cooks evenly and nothing overflows.
Let the dish rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking—it helps thicken the sauce and lets flavors settle.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Pasta: Since it cooks in the broth, keep a close eye to avoid mushy noodles.
Not Draining Fat Properly: If your beef is fatty, draining excess grease is essential to keep the sauce from becoming oily.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Skipping Seasoning Layers: Be sure to season at each step—especially the beef and broth.
Cooking on Too High Heat: It can cause the liquid to evaporate too fast before the pasta is done.

What to Serve With Creamy One-Pot Beef & Shells?

1. Garlic Bread

The buttery, crispy texture complements the creamy pasta perfectly and is great for scooping up extra sauce.

2. Steamed Broccoli

A simple side that adds some balance and freshness to the richness of the dish.

3. Caesar Salad

Crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of parmesan offer a refreshing contrast.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted with herbs work well alongside the creamy pasta.

5. Pickled Veggies or a Light Slaw

These add a tangy crunch that cuts through the creamy, cheesy richness.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing: You can freeze this dish, though the texture of the pasta may change slightly. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir well to bring back the creaminess.

Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving – assuming 6 servings)

Calories: ~490 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 650mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of beef is best for this recipe?

Lean ground beef (like 85/15) works well—enough fat for flavor without being too greasy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare it fully, store it, and just reheat with a bit of extra cream or broth to bring the texture back.

Is this dish spicy?

Not at all, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you want to spice it up.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, though the sauce will be thinner. Whole milk is best if substituting.

What’s the best way to make it more nutritious?

Add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or shredded carrots to boost the nutrition without much change in flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy One-Pot Beef & Shells is the ultimate comfort meal when you need something fast, filling, and family-approved. It’s packed with bold flavors, creamy textures, and comes together in just one pan. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping lunches, or just treating yourself after a long day, this dish always delivers warmth and satisfaction with minimal effort.