One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells: A Hearty Comfort Food Favorite


 

1. Cook the Ground Beef

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks (about 5–7 minutes).
  3. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside, draining any excess grease if necessary.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened.
  2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

3. Build the Sauce

  1. Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot.
  2. Stir in the Italian seasoningsalt, and black pepper, mixing everything together.

4. Cook the Pasta

  1. Add the pasta shellsbeef broth, and marinara sauce to the pot.
  2. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Make It Creamy

  1. Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
  2. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.

6. Serve

  • Remove from heat and let the dish rest for 2–3 minutes.
  • Garnish with Parmesan cheeseparsley, or red pepper flakes, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Serve with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
  • Freezing Option: Freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes for easy cleanup.
  • Creamy and Cheesy: A comfort food classic with a rich and satisfying sauce.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Enjoy this One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells, a hearty and delicious dish that’s guaranteed to become a go-to family favorite! 🥣✨