1. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove the beef from the pot and set aside, draining any excess grease if necessary.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Build the Sauce
- Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, mixing everything together.
4. Cook the Pasta
- Add the pasta shells, beef broth, and marinara sauce to the pot.
- 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
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
- 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 cheese, parsley, 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! 🥣✨