Description
One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is a hearty, comforting, and easy weeknight dinner made with ground beef, pasta shells, and a creamy cheese sauce all cooked in one pot.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
- Add pasta shells, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and texture.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 115mg