Save Experience ultimate comfort with this One Pot Creamy Beef and Shells. This recipe combines tender ground beef, classic pasta shells, and a velvety tomato sauce into a single, satisfying meal. It is a hearty American favorite that brings warmth to the table with minimal effort, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked dinner without the mountain of dishes.
Save There is something undeniably nostalgic about a bowl of cheesy beef pasta. By simmering the shells directly in beef broth and crushed tomatoes, the pasta absorbs maximum flavor while releasing starches that help thicken the sauce naturally. The addition of Italian seasoning and a touch of paprika adds a subtle depth that elevates this simple dish into something truly special.
Ingredients
- Meat: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pasta: 8 oz (225 g) medium pasta shells, uncooked
- Liquids: 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth; 1 can (14 oz/400 g) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream; 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
- Cheese & Seasonings: 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 2
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add the pasta shells, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Step 4
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 5
- Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Step 6
- Add the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Step 7
- Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, use a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even heat distribution. If you notice the liquid is absorbing too quickly before the pasta is tender, add a splash more broth. Always stir occasionally to prevent the shells from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this dish to suit your preferences. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. Ground turkey or chicken work well as leaner protein alternatives. To boost the nutritional value, stir in a handful of baby spinach or frozen peas during the final few minutes of simmering.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this creamy pasta hot, straight from the pot. It pairs wonderfully with a simple crisp green salad or roasted broccoli. A side of warm, crusty garlic bread is also excellent for soaking up any remaining velvety sauce.
Save With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this One Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. It is a hearty, all-in-one meal that delivers maximum comfort with minimum cleanup. Enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, while medium shells work perfectly to hold the sauce, you can substitute with other short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, macaroni, or fusilli. Adjust cooking time slightly based on pasta size and shape.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pasta may absorb more sauce as it sits, so add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore creaminess.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare components ahead. Brown the beef and aromatics, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, combine with liquids and pasta to finish cooking.
- → Is there a way to add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Add diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or zucchini when cooking the onions. Baby spinach or frozen peas can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken makes an excellent lighter alternative. Use a bit of olive oil to cook since turkey has less fat than beef, and consider using chicken broth instead of beef broth.