This One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that’s packed with hearty ground beef, tender pasta shells, and a rich, cheesy sauce made with Velveeta. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this one-pot meal is quick, satisfying, and sure to please the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot for easy cleanup.
• Rich and Creamy: Velveeta cheese makes the sauce silky and indulgent.
• Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that kids and adults will love.
• Customizable: Add veggies or swap seasonings to suit your tastes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups uncooked medium shells
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
• Salt & pepper to taste

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Beef Base

1. Cook Beef and Onion:
   In a Dutch oven or soup pot, cook the ground beef and chopped onions over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and cooked through (about 7-10 minutes). Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste:
   Stir in the tomato paste, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning until well combined.

Cook the Pasta

3. Add Liquids and Pasta:
   Pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Add in the uncooked pasta shells.
4. Simmer Until Tender:
   Reduce the heat to maintain a rapid simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring every couple of minutes, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed (about 12-13 minutes).

Finish with Cheese

5. Melt the Cheese:
   Stir in the Velveeta cheese cubes until fully melted. Remove the pot from the heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Rest and Serve:
   Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Toss in frozen peas, diced bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Cheese Options: Substitute Velveeta with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta shells and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free.
• Swap Meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini work well in this dish. Adjust cooking times as needed.

2. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot?

Stir the pasta frequently while it cooks to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare it ahead and reheat gently, adding a splash of liquid to refresh the sauce.

4. What can I use instead of Velveeta?

Substitute with 2 cups of shredded cheddar or a combination of cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan.

5. Is there a lower-calorie version?

Use leaner ground beef, light cream, and a reduced-fat cheese for a lighter dish.

6. Can I add other seasonings?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of chili powder, smoked paprika, or onion powder for additional flavor.

7. How can I thicken the sauce?

Let the dish sit for a few minutes off the heat to thicken naturally, or stir in a bit of cornstarch slurry if needed.

8. Can I make this without cream?

You can replace the cream with milk or evaporated milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

9. What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Serve with a side salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pot to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

One Pot Cheesy Beef and Shells is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy one-pot meal delivers hearty flavors with minimal cleanup. Customize it to suit your taste and enjoy a delicious homemade dinner that the whole family will love!

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