One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells 🍝 – A Comforting Family Favorite

When you’re craving a hearty, creamy, and downright delicious meal that comes together in no time, this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is here to save the day! Tender pasta shells soak up a savory beef and tomato sauce that’s made luxuriously creamy with a touch of cheese and cream. Best of all? You only need one pot, so cleanup is a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes and maximum flavor!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Swap out pasta shapes, add veggies, or tweak the flavors to suit your taste.

What Does One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells Taste Like?

It’s the ultimate comfort food! The savory beef pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy sauce, while the pasta shells catch all that delicious flavor in every bite. Think of it as the coziest combination of a classic pasta dish and a creamy casserole, all in one pot.

Ingredients

To serve 4-6 people, you’ll need:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups medium pasta shells
2 cups beef broth
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

Optional Add-Ons:

Chopped parsley or basil for garnish
A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor

Tools You’ll Need

Large pot or deep skillet with a lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Stir the pasta shells into the sauce. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Once the pasta is tender, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the pot from heat and let the dish sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot!

Tips for Perfect One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells

Choose the Right Pasta: Medium shells are perfect for catching the sauce, but other small pasta shapes like penne or elbow macaroni work well too.
Keep Stirring: Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remove the dish from heat as soon as the pasta is al dente to avoid mushiness.
Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorites.

Variations

Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a veggie boost.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your tomato sauce and broth are gluten-free.

What to Serve with One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells

Garlic Bread: A slice of warm garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.
Side Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens for a refreshing balance.
Roasted Veggies: Serve with roasted broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Freeze: Let the dish cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may not be as rich. For a thicker consistency, mix the milk with a teaspoon of cornstarch.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or sautéed mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Q: What’s the best way to avoid overcooking the pasta?
Stir occasionally and check for doneness a minute or two before the recommended cooking time.

Why You’ll Make This Again

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate combination of easy, comforting, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy, this dish hits the spot every time. Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that’s ready in 30 minutes with only one pot to clean?

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turned out! Share your thoughts in the comments or tag me on Pinterest—I’d love to see your creamy creations!

Nutritional Info (Per Serving):

Calories: 450 | Fat: 22g | Carbs: 38g | Protein: 25g

Looking for more quick dinner ideas? Check out my recipes for One-Pot Chicken Alfredo or Cheesy Taco Pasta for more family-friendly favorites! 🍝✨