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One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells Recipe

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3.9 from 56 reviews

This One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells recipe is a comforting and hearty dinner option perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is browned and then simmered with onions, garlic, a flavorful tomato sauce, and small pasta shells, all cooked together in one skillet. The dish is finished with a creamy blend of shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream, creating a rich, cheesy sauce that coats the pasta and beef beautifully. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra cheese for an irresistible meal that’s quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Beef Mixture

  • 1 pound lean ground beef (90-93% lean)
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced small
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups reduced beef broth
  • 8-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Pasta and Cheese

  • 8 ounces small pasta shells (small elbow macaroni may be substituted, but small shells recommended)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Garnishes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, thyme, oregano
  • Additional shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Crumble and flip the beef as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once fully cooked, remove the beef using a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate or bowl, keeping the cooking liquids and grease in the skillet.
  2. Sauté Onions: Add the diced onions to the skillet and sauté for about 4 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring frequently for even cooking.
  3. Cook Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute while stirring almost constantly to prevent burning.
  4. Make Roux: Evenly sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring well to combine. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste and create a base to thicken the sauce.
  5. Add Broth and Thicken: Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Increase heat to high and continue stirring for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Simmer with Tomato Sauce and Pasta: Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dry pasta shells. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and much of the liquid is absorbed. If pasta needs more cooking but liquid is low, add additional broth or water as needed. If excess liquid remains after pasta is cooked, increase heat and simmer uncovered briefly to evaporate.
  7. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and heavy cream. Increase heat to medium-high and stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
  8. Combine Beef and Reheat: Return the browned beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to fully heat through and incorporate flavors.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with extra shredded cheddar cheese, freshly grated Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for 3-4 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to prevent curdling of dairy. Avoid very high heat when reheating due to cream and cheese content.
  • Substitutions: Small pasta shells are recommended for texture and sauce absorption; small elbow macaroni can be used but other pasta types are not advised.
  • Adjust liquid as needed during simmering to prevent burning or overly dry pasta.
  • Use fresh herbs for garnish to enhance flavor and presentation.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://flavorhug.com/one-pot-cheesy-beef-and-shells-recipe/