There are certain meals that instantly feel like home, and this Easy One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is one of them. It is the kind of dish you turn to on a busy weeknight when everyone is hungry and you want something hearty, comforting, and deeply satisfying without creating a sink full of dishes. The creamy sauce, tender pasta shells, and savory beef come together in a single pot, making it both practical and indulgent.
This recipe was inspired by classic stovetop comfort meals that families have relied on for generations. It captures that familiar, nostalgic flavor while adding a creamy twist that feels just a little special. Whether you are cooking for your family after a long day, preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, or looking for a reliable meal to add to your weekly rotation, this dish checks every box: easy, filling, and irresistibly comforting.
Why This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells Works
This recipe stands out because it is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Cooking everything in one pot allows the pasta to absorb the rich, savory broth and cream as it cooks, creating a sauce that clings beautifully to every shell. The beef adds depth and heartiness, while simple seasonings bring balance without overpowering the dish.
Another reason this recipe works so well is its flexibility. You can adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, add vegetables for extra nutrition, or make it richer or lighter depending on your preferences. It is forgiving, approachable, and perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 pound ground beef
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1 small onion, finely diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups uncooked medium pasta shells
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3 cups beef broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Build the Flavor Base with Beef
Begin by placing a large, deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and adding the olive oil. Allow the oil to warm for a few seconds until it shimmers, which helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking. Add the ground beef to the pan and immediately begin breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cooking the beef properly at this stage is essential, as it forms the backbone of the dish’s flavor. Let it brown evenly, stirring occasionally, until no pink remains. Browning rather than steaming the beef creates deeper, richer flavor that carries through the entire dish.
2. Soften the Onion and Release the Aromatics
Once the beef is fully cooked, add the diced onion directly to the skillet. Stir well to combine it with the beef and allow it to cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. During this time, the onion will soften and become slightly translucent, adding a subtle sweetness that balances the savory beef. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. This brief cooking time is key—just enough to release the garlic’s aroma without letting it burn, which could add bitterness.
3. Layer in Seasonings and Tomato Paste
With the beef and aromatics ready, it’s time to build complexity. Add the tomato paste, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly, ensuring the tomato paste coats the beef evenly. Cooking the tomato paste for a minute helps deepen its flavor, removing any raw taste and adding a subtle richness to the sauce. This step ties the beef and seasonings together, creating a well-rounded base before the liquid ingredients are added.
4. Add Pasta and Broth for One-Pot Cooking
Next, add the uncooked pasta shells directly into the skillet. Pour in the beef broth and gently stir to ensure the pasta is mostly submerged. This method allows the pasta to cook directly in the seasoned liquid, absorbing flavor as it softens. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching carefully to avoid splashing. This step marks the transition from preparation to transformation, as the broth begins turning into a sauce.
5. Simmer Until the Pasta Is Perfectly Tender
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. During this time, the pasta shells will become tender while soaking up the savory broth. Most of the liquid should be absorbed, leaving behind a thick, flavorful base. This slow simmering process is what makes the one-pot method so effective.
6. Create the Creamy Sauce
With the pasta cooked, pour in the heavy cream and stir gently but thoroughly. The sauce will immediately begin to smooth out and take on a rich, creamy consistency. Keep the heat low to avoid scorching or curdling. This step transforms the dish from hearty to indulgent, coating each shell in velvety sauce.
7. Melt the Cheese for Richness
Add the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring continuously until fully melted and incorporated. The cheese thickens the sauce and adds a comforting depth of flavor. Stirring slowly ensures a smooth, cohesive texture without clumps.
8. Final Seasoning and Garnish
Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as needed, adding a pinch more salt or pepper if desired. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy for the best texture and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Beef and Shells
Using freshly shredded cheese helps ensure a smoother sauce, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture. Stirring occasionally while the pasta cooks prevents sticking and helps the shells cook evenly. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash of warm beef broth to loosen it to your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is satisfying on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make excellent companions, helping to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a small splash of beef broth or cream to help restore the creamy texture, as the pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it sits.
What type of beef works best for this dish?
Lean ground beef works very well because it provides flavor without excessive grease. If you use a higher-fat ground beef, be sure to drain excess fat after browning to keep the sauce from becoming too heavy.
Can I substitute the pasta shells with another shape?
Absolutely. While shells are ideal for holding the creamy sauce, other short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or elbow macaroni can be used. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta as it simmers.
How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten the recipe, you can replace half of the heavy cream with milk or use a lighter cream alternative. You can also add vegetables such as spinach or zucchini to increase volume and nutrition without significantly increasing calories.
Final Thoughts
Easy One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent place in your weekly meal plan. It brings together simplicity, comfort, and rich flavor in a way that feels both familiar and exciting. The one-pot approach means less cleanup, making it especially appealing on busy nights when time and energy are limited.
What truly sets this dish apart is its adaptability. You can customize it with different seasonings, cheeses, or add-ins while still keeping the core recipe intact. It is forgiving enough for beginner cooks yet satisfying enough for seasoned home chefs who appreciate a reliable comfort meal.
This recipe also has a way of bringing people together. Served straight from the pot, it encourages seconds and conversation, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Once you try it, you will understand why it is a dish you will want to make again and again. Creamy, hearty, and effortlessly delicious, this one-pot meal proves that comfort food does not have to be complicated to be unforgettable.
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Easy One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells You’ll Make Weekly
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A comforting, creamy pasta dish made in one pot with savory beef and tender shells, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 pound ground beef
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1 small onion, finely diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups uncooked medium pasta shells
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3 cups beef broth
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and brown the ground beef.
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Add onion and cook until softened, then stir in garlic.
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Mix in tomato paste and seasonings.
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Add pasta shells and beef broth, bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until pasta is tender.
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Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese until creamy.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to maintain a creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
