This One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is the kind of meal you turn to when you’re short on time but still craving something comforting, hearty, and downright satisfying. Think tender pasta shells nestled in a rich, cheesy, savory beef sauce—all made in a single pot with minimal cleanup. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or just those evenings when you need a meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One Pot Wonder: Less mess, less stress! Everything cooks in one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to relax after dinner.
Family Favorite: This is a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. It’s cheesy, beefy, and cozy—basically a hug in a bowl.
Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish, and you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients but tastes like something you’d order at your favorite diner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ground Beef: The star of the dish. Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease, or go for ground turkey as a lighter option.
Pasta Shells: Medium shells work best—they hold the sauce perfectly and give you that satisfying bite.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef. Dice it finely so it melts into the sauce.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the whole pot with warm, savory flavor.
Tomato Sauce: Creates the base of the sauce—smooth, tangy, and rich.
Beef Broth: Enhances the meaty flavor and helps cook the pasta directly in the pot.
Heavy Cream: Adds a creamy touch that brings all the flavors together.
Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for maximum flavor. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-packaged.
Paprika & Italian Seasoning: A dash of both adds warmth and herby complexity.
Salt & Pepper: Season to taste—don’t skip this step, it makes a huge difference.

Variations

Spicy Beef and Shells: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.
Veggie-Packed Version: Stir in some chopped spinach, bell peppers, or frozen peas for extra color and nutrition.
Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella for a gooier texture, or pepper jack for a zesty twist.
Protein Alternatives: Swap beef for ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly version.

How to Make One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s fully browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for a few minutes until they’re soft and fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Add the uncooked pasta shells directly into the pot. Stir everything well so the pasta is submerged in the sauce. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed (about 12–15 minutes).

Step 5: Make it Creamy and Cheesy

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is melted and perfectly combined into a creamy, cheesy beefy goodness.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Let the dish rest for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly, then scoop it into bowls and serve it hot.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: It melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
Watch the Liquid: If the pasta absorbs too much too quickly, add a splash of extra broth to keep things saucy.
Stir Occasionally: This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom and ensures even cooking.
Let it Sit: After cooking, letting the dish rest for 5 minutes will help the sauce thicken to that perfect creamy consistency.

How to Serve

This dish is filling on its own, but if you want to round it out, here are a few ideas:

Garnishes:

Sprinkle with chopped parsley or fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness. A little extra shredded cheese on top never hurts either.

Sides:

Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.

Beverage:

A glass of iced tea, red wine, or even a cold beer can complement the richness of the dish beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well. Place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I make this without heavy cream?
Yes! You can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be a bit lighter and less creamy.

What if I don’t have pasta shells?
No problem—elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne all work just fine. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Just be sure to store it properly and reheat gently with a little added liquid.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very much so! It’s cheesy, mild, and comforting—perfect for even the pickiest eaters.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is everything a weeknight dinner should be—quick, comforting, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family or just need something warm and satisfying after a long day, this dish delivers every single time. Try it once, and it just might earn a permanent spot in your regular dinner rotation.

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells Recipe