Description
Craving a comforting, hearty meal that comes together in just 30 minutes and only uses one pot? This Creamy One-Pot Beef & Shells is your answer. It’s packed with rich ground beef, tender pasta shells, a velvety cheese sauce, and plenty of flavor. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, easy meal prep, or when you just want a cozy, satisfying dish with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re searching for quick dinner ideas, easy recipes, or family-friendly comfort food, this one ticks all the boxes.
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)
Instructions
1. Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and break it up as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef and onions evenly.
4. Pour in beef broth and bring to a gentle boil. Add pasta shells, stir, and reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once pasta is al dente, stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
6. Simmer uncovered for 2-3 more minutes to thicken slightly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheddar for the creamiest result—pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
Stir occasionally while pasta cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 27
- Saturated Fat: 13
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 90