Description
This creamy one pot beef pasta shells recipe is the ultimate easy comfort food dinner—rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, all made in one pan for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 500g ground beef
- 2 cups pasta shells (dry)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes until browned.
2. Season with salt and black pepper. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
6. Pour in beef broth and bring to a gentle boil.
7. Add pasta shells and stir well to combine.
8. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Once pasta is tender, stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
10. Add Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Mix until creamy and smooth.
11. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens.
12. Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot / Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg