Make One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells for a quick, delicious comfort meal. This easy recipe saves time while delivering creamy, cheesy flavor every time.
One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells
If you’re looking for an easy, cheesy, and filling dinner, this One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells recipe is a fantastic choice. It combines rich ground beef, tender pasta shells, and melty cheese all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum comfort.
This meal is perfect for busy weeknights but feels hearty enough to satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this simple recipe comes together quickly with common ingredients.
Why You’ll Love It
This one pot meal saves you time on washing dishes and prepping multiple components. The pasta cooks directly in the flavorful broth, soaking up the savory juices from the beef and tomatoes, while the cheese adds creamy, luscious richness. You’ll get a homemade feel in under 45 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef – lean or regular, based on preference
- 1 small onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – for aromatic flavor
- 2 cups beef broth – use low sodium for better control
- 1 cup water – balances the liquid
- 2 cups uncooked pasta shells – medium size works best
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – with juices for moisture
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp or mild
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds nutty flavor
- Salt and pepper, to taste – adjust accordingly
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with your spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth, water, and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Add the dry pasta shells, making sure they’re submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook until the pasta is tender — about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the pasta is cooked and most liquid is absorbed, stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and creamy. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if you like for a pop of color and freshness.
For more easy meal ideas try our Easy Weeknight Dinners or get inspired by One Pot Pasta Recipes. For expert cooking tips and videos, visit Food Network.
Expert Tips
Use a large enough pot so the pasta cooks evenly without sticking. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping. If the mixture gets too thick before the pasta is tender, add a splash of water or broth.
For best flavor, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties that may contain anti-caking agents.
This recipe scales easily—double the ingredients to feed a crowd, but cook in a very large pot to maintain proper liquid ratio.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw naturally overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations
- Vegan: Use plant-based ground meat alternatives and dairy-free cheese.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free pasta shells and use gluten-free broth.
- Dairy-Free: Swap cheese for dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when browning the beef.
FAQ
- Can I make One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it. The texture might thicken, so add liquid when reheating.
- What type of pasta shells work best for this recipe?
- Medium-sized pasta shells are perfect as they hold the sauce well and cook evenly in the pot.
- Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?
- Absolutely, ground poultry works just as well and can make the dish lighter.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
- What is the best way to prevent the pasta from sticking?
- Stir the pot occasionally during cooking and use enough liquid to keep pasta submerged.
Call to Action
Give this One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells recipe a try tonight! We’d love to hear how it turns out — leave a comment, rate the recipe, and don’t forget to save and share with friends who love easy, cheesy dinners.
