Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is a comforting, family-friendly meal that comes together quickly and easily with minimal cleanup. This dish combines tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, all cooked in one pot for maximum flavor and convenience. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefmedium pasta shellsoniongarlictomato pastebeef brothcanned diced tomatosevpaporated milkcheddar cheesecream cheeseItalian seasoningpaprikaolive oilsalt and pepper

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.

Add chopped onion and cook until softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.

Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and paprika, cooking for 1-2 minutes.

Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and uncooked pasta shells. Stir well to combine.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.

Stir in the evaporated milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and cream cheese until fully melted and creamy.

Let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Add chopped spinach or bell peppers for extra veggies.

Use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a twist.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

Top with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne all work well in this recipe.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, let it cool completely and freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with a bit of added liquid.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well, making it great for meal prep.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

You can, but the flavor and consistency may differ. Use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes.

How can I make it less rich?

Use reduced-fat cheese and milk, and skip the cream cheese if desired.

Is evaporated milk necessary?

It adds creaminess without curdling, but you can use half-and-half or whole milk as an alternative.

Can I add other seasonings?

Absolutely—garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika all enhance the flavor.

What if the sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your pot is large enough to handle the volume.

Is it kid-friendly?

Definitely—cheesy pasta and beef is always a kid-approved combo.

Conclusion

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for weeknight dinners. With its creamy texture, savory beef, and tender pasta, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Plus, with everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze.