One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s easy, cheesy, and guaranteed to please? This One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells checks every box. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and—best of all—everything cooks in a single pot. That means less mess, less stress, and dinner on the table in about 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving something satisfying after a long day, this recipe delivers in a big way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot—yes, even the pasta! No extra dishes to wash.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with beefy flavor—this is the kind of meal that hugs you back.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in around half an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Kid and Adult Approved: Mild flavors with plenty of gooey cheese make it a winner across all ages.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what brings this rich, savory dish together:

• Ground Beef: The heart of the dish. Go for lean to reduce excess grease, or use a fattier cut and drain it well.
• Small Pasta Shells: These little guys catch all the cheesy sauce. You can swap for elbow macaroni or rotini in a pinch.
• Onion: Adds depth and sweetness as it cooks down with the beef.
• Garlic: A few cloves go a long way in boosting flavor—don’t skip it!
• Tomato Paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies that classic beefy, tomato flavor.
• Beef Broth: Adds savory richness and helps the pasta cook right in the pot.
• Heavy Cream: For that luscious, creamy finish that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts into the dish to create a silky, gooey sauce. Freshly grated melts best.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties everything together beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season generously—it makes a difference!

Variations

Want to switch things up a bit? Try these tasty twists:

• Spicy Beef and Shells: Add crushed red pepper flakes or stir in some diced jalapeños.
• Add Veggies: Sneak in some nutrition with finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Different Cheese: Mix in mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a little cream cheese for variety.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: A lighter take that still tastes amazing.
• Creamy Tomato Kick: Stir in a spoonful of marinara or salsa for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as you go. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the chopped onion to the beef and sauté until it turns soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about 30 seconds.

Step 3: Stir in Tomato Paste and Seasonings

Mix in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together so the beef is well coated.

Step 4: Add Shells and Broth

Pour in the beef broth and stir in the uncooked pasta shells. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed—about 10–12 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken up. Then scoop it into bowls, top with a little extra cheese or fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Stir Occasionally While Simmering: This helps keep the pasta from sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed—cheese and broth can vary in saltiness.
• Let It Rest: Give it a few minutes off the heat so the sauce can thicken and cling to the pasta.

How to Serve

This dish is super satisfying on its own, but here are a few ways to round out the meal:

Garnishes:

Top with chopped fresh parsley, cracked black pepper, or even a dollop of sour cream for a little tang.

Side Ideas:

Serve alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted broccoli for a pop of freshness. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up any cheesy bits left in the bowl.

Drink Pairings:

Go with a glass of red wine (like Merlot or Cabernet), or keep it cozy with iced tea or a cold beer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This freezes beautifully! Spoon into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta will work—elbow macaroni, rotini, or even penne. Just keep an eye on cooking time and liquid levels.

Is this dish spicy?
Not at all, unless you want it to be. The base recipe is mild, but it’s easy to add spice with chili flakes or hot sauce.

Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try using a dairy-free cream alternative and vegan cheese, but the flavor and texture will change a bit. Still delicious!

What if I don’t have tomato paste?
No problem. You can substitute with a few tablespoons of tomato sauce or even ketchup in a pinch, though it may slightly alter the taste.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a fast, comforting meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters, this One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is a total game-changer. It’s simple, hearty, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making it on a weeknight or prepping ahead for busy days, this cheesy classic deserves a spot in your dinner rotation. Give it a try—you’ll be glad you did!

Print