Save When you need a comforting dinner that doesn't leave you with a mountain of dishes, this One Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate solution. This recipe combines hearty ground beef and tender pasta shells in a luscious, cheesy tomato sauce that the whole family will love. In just 35 minutes, you can have a gourmet-style meal on the table using simple pantry staples and just one single pot.
Save This dish is all about efficiency without sacrificing flavor. By cooking the pasta directly in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, the shells absorb all the savory goodness, resulting in a deeper taste than traditional boiled pasta. It's the perfect weeknight comfort food that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225 g) medium pasta shells, uncooked
- 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
- 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 (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Beef
- 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: Sauté Aromatics
- 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: Simmer the Pasta
- 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: Cook until Al Dente
- 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: Add Dairy
- Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Step 6: Melt the Cheese
- Add the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, make sure the pasta shells are submerged in the liquid before you cover the pot. Stirring occasionally during the simmering process is key to preventing the shells from sticking to the bottom. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the dish sit for a few minutes after removing it from the heat, as the sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this dish to suit your preferences. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or additional milk. If you prefer different proteins, ground turkey or chicken work exceptionally well. You can also boost the vegetable content by stirring in a handful of baby spinach or sweet peas during the final few minutes of simmering.
Serviervorschläge
This hearty meal pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese. A side of warm, crusty bread or garlic knots is also a fantastic addition for scooping up any remaining creamy sauce.
Save Whether you're feeding a hungry family or just looking for an easy meal prep option, this One Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is guaranteed to satisfy. Enjoy the rich, cheesy flavors and the simplicity of a truly one-pot meal!
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, you can substitute medium shells with other short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, macaroni, or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since different shapes may cook at slightly different rates.
- → Is this dish freezer-friendly?
The creamy sauce can separate slightly when frozen and reheated. For best results, store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If freezing, omit the cream and add it fresh when reheating.
- → Can I make this lighter?
Absolutely. Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese or use lower-fat varieties. You can also use lean ground beef or ground turkey to reduce the fat content.
- → Why does the pasta cook directly in the liquid?
Cooking pasta directly in the broth and tomato mixture allows it to absorb all the savory flavors while releasing starch into the liquid, which naturally thickens the sauce and creates a creamier texture.
- → What can I serve with this?
A simple green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also make great sides.