One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells

This One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells recipe offers a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender pasta shells, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this dish delivers satisfying flavors with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for hectic schedules.​EatingWell+2Easy Instant Recipes+2Averie Cooks+2
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooked entirely in one pot, reducing the number of dishes to wash.​
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both adults and children.​Easy Instant Recipes
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with various ingredients to suit your taste preferences.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lean ground beef​Meatloaf and Melodrama+12Easy Instant Recipes+12Salt & Lavender+12
• Medium pasta shells​thecomfortofcooking.com+5Reddit+5Easy Instant Recipes+5
• Olive oil​
• Onion​The Seasoned Mom+3thecomfortofcooking.com+3Salt & Lavender+3
• Garlic​
• Tomato paste​Log in or sign up to view
• Beef broth​Salt & Lavender+4Meatloaf and Melodrama+4Simply Recipes+4
• Heavy cream​
• Worcestershire sauce​Salt & Lavender
• Velveeta cheese​
• Italian seasoning​thecomfortofcooking.com+1Easy Instant Recipes+1
• Paprika​Averie Cooks
• Garlic powder​Meatloaf and Melodrama
• Salt and pepper​

Directions

1. Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add olive oil, ground beef, and chopped onions. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.​Eating in an Instant+3Salt & Lavender+3Damn Delicious+3
2. Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in tomato paste, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning until well combined. Pour in beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to incorporate.​Salt & Lavender
3. Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil. Add the uncooked pasta shells, then reduce heat to medium. Let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened (about 12-13 minutes).​
4. Incorporate the Cheese: Add cubed Velveeta cheese to the pot, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.​
5. Serve: Remove from heat and let the dish sit for a couple of minutes to allow the sauce to further thicken. Serve hot.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.​
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes​EatingWell+10The Seasoned Mom+10Easy Instant Recipes+10
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes​Cooklist: Plan • Shop • Cook+2Southern Living+2thecomfortofcooking.com+2
• Total Time: 30 minutes​

Variations

• Cheese Options: Substitute Velveeta with shredded cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile. Note that the sauce may be less smooth.​
• Protein Alternatives: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.​
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.​Easy Instant Recipes
• Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to introduce some heat to the dish.​

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.​Salt & Lavender+2Salt & Lavender+2The Seasoned Mom+2
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary. Stir occasionally until heated through.​Damn Delicious+3Salt & Lavender+3Salt & Lavender+3
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content, as the sauce may separate and the pasta texture can change upon thawing.​Salt & Lavender

FAQs

What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?

You can substitute Velveeta with shredded cheddar cheese. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less creamy and smooth.​

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of liquid to adjust the sauce consistency.​

Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended due to potential changes in sauce consistency and pasta texture upon thawing.​

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix to introduce some heat.​

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini can be used. Cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.​The Seasoned Mom

What side dishes pair well with this meal?

A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this dish nicely.​Salt & Lavender

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of beef broth or milk to reach the desired consistency.​

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely. Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can enhance the nutritional value and flavor.​Easy Instant Recipes

Is there a lower-fat alternative to heavy cream?

Using half-and-half or whole milk is possible but may result in a thinner sauce. Be cautious, as lower-fat dairy products are more prone to curdling.​Damn Delicious

How can I ensure the pasta cooks evenly?

Stir the pasta occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.​The Seasoned Mom

Conclusion

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is a delightful, comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying. Its rich, creamy sauce combined with tender pasta and savory

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