One Pot Cheesy Beef Shells
A comforting and delicious one-pot meal featuring tender pasta shells, flavorful ground beef, and creamy cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz large pasta shells
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan optional
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
- Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the pasta shells, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cooking
- Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shells are tender and the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the milk or cream and shredded cheddar cheese; cook until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese if desired. Adjust seasoning and serve hot.
Notes
Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking. For extra flavor, you can add some vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the mix. If you want a spicier dish, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This dish can be made with different proteins such as ground turkey or chicken, and you can use different types of cheese for varied flavors.