Cheesy Beef and Shells One-Pot Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our One Pot Cheesy Beef Shells recipe. Picture this: rich and savory ground beef, tender pasta shells, all blanketed in a velvety cheese sauce, coming together effortlessly in just one pot. Yes, you heard it right – minimal cleanup and maximum flavor! From hectic weeknights to laid-back Sundays, this dish is a surefire way to win hearts and fill tummies with its creamy, cheesy goodness.

Let me share a little secret with you – the key to the lusciousness of this dish lies in the magic of Velveeta cheese. Its smooth meltability adds a touch of nostalgia to every bite, creating a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. I remember the first time I whipped up this recipe on a rainy day – the applause it received from my family was music to my ears, making it a staple on our dining table ever since.

So, whether you’re looking for a quick fix for dinner or a cozy meal to unwind after a long day, our One Pot Cheesy Beef Shells have got you covered. Get ready to dive into a bowl full of warmth and satisfaction, and watch as this delightful dish disappears in no time, leaving you craving for more.

Quick Benefits

• Convenience: Easy one-pot recipe for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal cleanup.
• Creamy and Satisfying: Velvety cheese sauce made with Velveeta adds silkiness and nostalgia to the dish.
• Versatile: Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef, and different types of cheese can be used.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef and Shells One-Pot Recipe Recipe

• Ultimate comfort food: This dish is creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, perfect for when you crave comfort food.
• Easy cleanup: Being a one-pot recipe, this dish is convenient and saves you from a pile of dishes to wash.
• Family favorite: It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have your family asking for more and declaring it a new favorite.
• Quick and hassle-free: Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you need a quick meal without much effort.
• Kid-approved: Even toddlers love this dish, as evidenced by the joyful response after the first bite.
• Versatile: You can customize the recipe by using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version or swapping out the cheese for a different variety.
• Make-ahead: Leftovers can be stored for up to three days, making this dish suitable for meal prep.
• Playful mashup of flavors: Combines American cheeseburger flavors with classic pasta casserole nostalgia for a unique and delicious meal.
• Balanced meal: Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef and Shells One-Pot Recipe

Main Ingredients

• Salt, to taste
• 200 grams uncooked medium pasta shells
• 225 grams processed cheese, cubed
• 240 millilitres heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 480 millilitres beef broth
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 450 grams lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped

Pro Tips for Cheesy Beef and Shells One-Pot Recipe

Pro Tip 1: When making One Pot Cheesy Beef Shells, use Velveeta cheese for its smooth melting properties, resulting in a velvety and nostalgic cheese sauce. It adds a creamy texture that everyone will love, especially kids. If you prefer to avoid Velveeta, opt for mild melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella, but note that the sauce may be less silky.

Pro Tip 2: To store leftovers of this dish, let them cool fully before refrigerating in airtight containers for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce as the pasta can absorb liquid over time. For the creamiest texture, enjoy the dish fresh rather than freezing it. To balance out the richness of the meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette and serve hot with extra black pepper and fresh parsley for color.

Pro Tip 3: Customize your One Pot Cheesy Beef Shells by substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra color and nutrients. For a gluten-free version, swap out the pasta shells with gluten-free alternatives without compromising on the comforting and delicious flavors of this cheesy beef dish.

How to Make Cheesy Beef and Shells One-Pot Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Beef and Onion

In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and chopped onions for 7-10 minutes until beef is browned. Discard any excess fat.

Step 2: Incorporate Aromatics and Seasonings

Combine tomato paste, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning with the beef mixture, ensuring everything is well coated.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

Add beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil before adding pasta shells.

Step 4: Simmer Shells to Tenderness

Reduce heat to a rapid simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 12-13 minutes or until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Seasoning

Add cubed processed cheese and stir until melted. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper, then let stand to thicken or serve immediately.

Storage Tips

Once you have enjoyed your One Pot Cheesy Beef Shells and have any leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Allow any remaining dish to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Store the containers in the refrigerator, where the Cheesy Beef Shells can be kept for up to three days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the dish to help loosen up the sauce, as pasta tends to absorb liquid over time. While freezing is an option, the texture of the dish is creamier and more enjoyable when consumed fresh.

For a lighter variation, you can swap out the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you prefer to avoid Velveeta cheese, you can use small cubes of a mild, melting cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella, though the sauce may not be as silky. To substitute heavy cream, whole milk can be used, but for the richest texture, it’s recommended to stick with heavy cream. Whether paired with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, this dish is versatile and sure to be a hit with your family every time you serve it.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef in this recipe. This substitution will alter the flavor slightly but still result in a delicious dish.

For those looking to avoid processed cheese like Velveeta, you can try using small cubes of a mild melting cheese such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella. Keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less silky, but the flavor will still be rich and cheesy.

To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap the medium pasta shells for gluten-free pasta shells. This substitution allows individuals with gluten intolerances to enjoy this comforting one-pot meal without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on serving this One Pot Cheesy Beef Shells dish, try transferring it into individual small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for personalized portions. Top each serving with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or crushed potato chips for added texture and flavor. Garnish with a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce for a spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.

To elevate the presentation of this comforting meal, consider baking the cheesy beef shells in a large hollowed-out bread bowl. Fill the bread bowl with the cooked pasta and beef mixture, then top with extra cheese before baking until bubbly and golden brown. Serve slices of the cheesy bread bowl with a side of mixed greens dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette for a cozy and creative dining experience that will delight your guests.

FAQs for Cheesy Beef and Shells One-Pot Recipe

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey can be used instead of beef for a lighter option, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Try mixing in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or peas after browning the beef for added color and nutrients.

How should I reheat leftovers of this dish?

Absolutely. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess to the sauce.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute gluten-free pasta shells to make the meal suitable for gluten intolerances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, One Pot Cheesy Beef Shells is a delightful and comforting dish that is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Its simplicity, rich flavors, and creamy texture make it a hit with both kids and adults alike. The convenience of cooking everything in one pot and the minimal cleanup afterwards make it a practical choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Don’t hesitate to make this dish your own by experimenting with different ingredients or adding your favorite veggies for a personal touch. Whether you stick to the original recipe or get creative with your own twists, the essence of One Pot Cheesy Beef Shells will always be the same – a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal that brings joy to the table every time. So go ahead, whip up a batch of this cheesy, beefy goodness, and watch it disappear before your eyes. Enjoy your One Pot Cheesy Beef Shells creation!

Cheesy Beef and Shells One-Pot Recipe

Creamy, cheesy beef shells cooked in one pot for a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal, perfect for busy nights or lazy Sundays.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time25 Minutes

Total Time35 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings (One large pot)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Salt, to taste
• 200 grams uncooked medium pasta shells
• 225 grams processed cheese, cubed
• 240 millilitres heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 480 millilitres beef broth
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 450 grams lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Sauté Beef and Onion: In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and chopped onions for 7-10 minutes until beef is browned. Discard any excess fat.
2. Incorporate Aromatics and Seasonings: Combine tomato paste, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning with the beef mixture, ensuring everything is well coated.
3. Add Liquids and Pasta: Add beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil before adding pasta shells.
4. Simmer Shells to Tenderness: Reduce heat to a rapid simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 12-13 minutes or until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
5. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning: Add cubed processed cheese and stir until melted. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper, then let stand to thicken or serve immediately.