🍲 One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells in Under 30 Minutes
One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells: A Fast, Comforting Dinner Ready in Under 30 Minutes
This One-Pot Creamy Beef and Shells is the ultimate busy-night dinner.
Tender pasta shells, seasoned ground beef, and a rich creamy tomato sauce all cook together in one pan — no draining, no fuss, and no time wasted.
It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and unbelievably comforting, making it a weeknight staple.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Only one pot — super easy cleanup
- Creamy, cozy pasta the whole family loves
- Uses simple ingredients you already have
- Great for leftovers and meal prep
- Customizable with veggies or spice
🥘 Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups pasta shells (uncooked)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: parsley, parmesan
🍽️ Instructions
1. Brown the Beef
Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Add Aromatics
Stir in onions and garlic. Cook 2–3 minutes until softened.
3. Build the Sauce
Add:
- pasta shells
- beef broth
- tomato sauce
- Italian seasoning
- paprika
- salt & pepper
Stir and bring to a simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta
Cover and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shells are tender.
5. Make It Creamy
Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheese.
Let melt into a smooth, rich, creamy sauce.
6. Serve
Top with parsley or parmesan and serve warm.
🔥 Expert Tips
- Use small or medium shells so they cook evenly
- Want it thicker? Simmer uncovered during the last 2 minutes
- Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes
- Add veggies: peas, spinach, diced peppers, or mushrooms
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Serve with garlic bread
- Pair with a simple green salad
- Great as leftovers for lunch
- Freeze for up to 2 months
❓ FAQ
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Yes — use half-and-half, cream cheese, or evaporated milk.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, but adjust cooking time slightly.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely — it keeps the dish lighter.
🧮 Nutrition (Approx per serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 24g
- Protein: 24g
