One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells
Cheesy, Savory, and Ready in Under 30 Minutes
If you’re short on time but craving something warm, hearty, and wildly satisfying, this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shellsis about to become your new favorite dinner. It’s got seasoned ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a velvety sauce made with tomato, cream, and melted cheddar—all cooked in one pot with almost zero cleanup.
It’s the kind of recipe that wins over picky eaters, satisfies big appetites, and doubles easily for leftovers or meal prep. Cozy, rich, and ridiculously easy—this dish delivers.
Why I Love This Recipe
This one is always on standby in my kitchen. It’s everything you want in a weeknight meal:
- Quick to make—under 30 minutes
- One pot only—fewer dishes
- Classic flavor combo of beef, tomato, and cheese
- Kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing, and budget-conscious
Whether you’re feeding a family, a roommate, or just yourself with future leftovers in mind, this creamy pasta checks all the boxes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 8 ounces medium pasta shells
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
1. Brown the Beef
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned and the onion is tender.
Drain any excess grease.
2. Add Seasoning and Sauce
Stir in salt, pepper, beef broth, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Add the Pasta
Pour in the pasta shells.
Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
4. Stir in the Creaminess
Once pasta is cooked, add the heavy cream and cheddar cheese.
Stir until cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Finish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.
Optional: Add more cheese on top for an extra gooey finish!
Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—check around 10 minutes and stir to prevent sticking.
- Want extra richness? Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or a dab of butter at the end.
- Add-ins: Frozen peas, sautéed mushrooms, or chopped spinach work well here.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This creamy one-pot meal is a complete dinner on its own—but here are a few ways to round out the comfort:
- Start strong with this Beer Cheese Dip—perfect with pretzels or breadsticks.
- Pair with handheld bites like these Cheesy Chicken Sliders for parties or movie nights.
- Craving a crunchy side? Try Sheet Pan Quesadillas to keep things casual and crowd-friendly.
- Want another indulgent main? This Dorito Casserole makes a bold, cheesy pairing.
- Finish it all off with The Best Peanut Butter Brownies for dessert. You won’t regret it.
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze in single-portion containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If one-pot dinners and cheesy comfort food are your jam, don’t miss these favorites:
- Dorito Casserole
- Beer Cheese Dip
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders
- The Best Peanut Butter Brownies
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is weeknight gold. It’s fast, affordable, ultra-satisfying, and destined to become a regular in your rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want comfort in a bowl, this one’s a keeper.
Tag @ChefManiac if you make it—I’d love to see how it turned out in your kitchen!
