Pin it One Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is a comforting, hearty pasta dish that brings together tender ground beef and pasta shells in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Designed for busy weeknights, this meal is cooked entirely in a single pot, ensuring that cleanup is as simple as the preparation itself.
Pin it The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. As the pasta shells simmer directly in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, they release starches that naturally thicken the sauce, creating a velvety texture that perfectly coats every bite of beef and pasta.
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: Combine and Simmer
- 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 the Pasta
- 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: Serve
- Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve a lighter sauce, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for the heavy cream. Be sure to stir the pot occasionally while the pasta is simmering to prevent any shells from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly versatile. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also boost the nutritional value by stirring in fresh baby spinach or sweet peas during the final few minutes of simmering.
Serviervorschläge
This rich and cheesy pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green side salad or some crusty bread to wipe up any extra sauce. It’s a complete meal on its own but benefits from a fresh, light garnish like chopped parsley.
Pin it Whether you're looking for a quick fix after work or a hearty weekend dinner, this One Pot Creamy Beef and Shells delivers high-quality flavor with absolute ease. It's a reliable dish that is sure to enter your regular dinner rotation.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture, as the sauce will thicken when chilled.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Medium shells, penne, rotini, or macaroni all work well. Choose shapes that have plenty of surface area for the sauce to cling to, and adjust cooking time slightly based on pasta size.
- → Can I use different meat?
Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage all make excellent substitutes for beef. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require a tablespoon of oil when browning to prevent sticking.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The pasta will continue absorbing liquid, so add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce.
- → Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- → How can I add more vegetables?
Baby spinach, frozen peas, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms can be added during the last few minutes of simmering. They'll cook through without becoming mushy.