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One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells


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  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells recipe is a rich, hearty dish made with tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a luscious, cheesy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this comforting recipe is quick, easy, and family-friendly.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ sweet onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 23 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 12 ounces medium pasta shells
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 1 heaping cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
  • Add the diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  • Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the flour and cook for 30 seconds to thicken.
  • Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Mix in the tomato sauce and sugar.
  • Stir in the uncooked pasta shells, ensuring they are submerged. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Once the pasta is al dente, stir in the heavy cream and cook for 1–2 minutes to warm through. Remove from heat and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
  • Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or parmesan, if desired.

Notes

  • Any medium pasta shape (penne, rotini, elbow macaroni) can be substituted for shells.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and replace flour with cornstarch.
  • To add vegetables, stir in spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: One-Pot Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: ~480
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg